As we start a new chapter with a new president in the United States, many of us feel anxious, scared, and uncertain. Real threats to reproductive rights and LGBTQIA+ rights worsen these feelings.
As a mental health therapist, I have witnessed firsthand the ways in which political climates affect our emotional well-being. The fear of losing fundamental rights can contribute to a significant rise in stress, depression, and a sense of helplessness.
During these times, we can find purpose and strength in our communities. We can work together to protect mental health and human rights.
Here are some practical ways we can all help safeguard mental health and reproductive freedoms in the face of political threats.
1. Provide Safe Spaces for Open Conversations
One of the simplest, yet most powerful things we can do is offer a safe, judgment-free space for people to talk about their fears and concerns. In a world where conversations about politics and rights can become highly polarized, fostering empathetic dialogue is crucial. This means actively listening, validating emotions, and offering reassurance that it’s okay to feel uncertain or scared.
You can encourage these conversations in your own circles—whether it is family, friends, or colleagues. This creates a network of support where individuals can share their anxieties without feeling alone or marginalized. A simple act of listening can go a long way toward mental well-being.
2. Advocate for Comprehensive Sex Education
Understanding one’s own body, the options available for reproductive health, and the importance of consent are all critical aspects of mental and emotional well-being.
In many communities, access to thorough sex education is still limited, and this creates a gap in knowledge that can contribute to anxiety, confusion, and a lack of empowerment, especially for young people.
Advocate for sex education that includes information on contraception, pregnancy, LGBTQIA+ issues, and mental health. Speak to local schools, organizations, and lawmakers about ensuring that these crucial topics are addressed in a way that is inclusive and supportive for all individuals, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
3. Support Reproductive Healthcare Access
When reproductive rights come under threat, so does access to safe and affordable healthcare. If you work in the mental health field, you are likely familiar with the link between physical health and mental health. Access to birth control, abortion services, and other reproductive health services directly affects a person’s physical and mental health.
As a community member, advocate for policies that protect access to reproductive healthcare. Volunteer at or donate to organizations that support women’s health, LGBTQIA+ health, and reproductive rights, such as Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, or local community clinics.
These organizations provide critical services that can help reduce the mental strain caused by the lack of access to care and abortion laws.
4. Combat Stigma Against the LGBTQIA+ Community
LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially transgender and non-binary people, face an alarming rise in discrimination and violence, as well as mental health issues.
“Evidence suggests that transgender people often experience a disproportionately high burden of disease, including in the domains of mental, sexual and reproductive health.” (From the World Health Organization, Gender incongruence and transgender health in the ICD)
This not only contributes to a hostile environment but also worsens mental health outcomes for those who are already don’t feel comfortable.
If you are in a position to, advocate for inclusive laws that protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Support LGBTQIA+ organizations, attend local rallies, and use your voice on social media to fight stigma and spread awareness.
Continue to educate yourself and others on the unique mental health challenges that the LGBTQIA+ community faces.
5. Address Mental Health Stigma and Promote Resources
In times of political unrest and uncertainty, people often experience a surge in anxiety, depression, and trauma. The stigma surrounding mental health care persists in many communities, making it difficult for individuals to seek help. We all need to work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. We can do this by normalizing conversations about emotional well-being and encouraging people to go to therapy.
Engage in outreach within your community to inform people about mental health resources available to them. The more people are aware of their options, the more empowered they feel to take charge of their mental health.
6. Get Involved in Local Politics and Community Organizing
Getting involved in local politics serves as one of the best ways to protect rights and support mental health in our communities. This might mean volunteering for political campaigns, or simply supporting candidates who prioritize reproductive rights and mental health access. Many local elections have a much more direct impact on everyday life than presidential elections.
Organizing within your community is equally important. Mobilizing individuals around critical issues—such as protecting reproductive health services, preventing discrimination, or advocating for mental health funding—can help amplify your voice. Even small actions, like signing petitions or attending local meetings, can have a meaningful impact.
7. Promote Self-Care and Resilience
In challenging times, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. We also need to remember that our ability to fight for justice, equity, and human rights depends on our own resilience. Taking care of our own mental health is just as important as advocating for the rights of others.
Encourage people to practice self-care, whether it’s through meditation, physical exercise, journaling, or seeking professional therapy. As individuals, we must recognize that we cannot pour from an empty cup. By fostering our own emotional well-being, we are better equipped to help others and stand strong in the face of adversity.
Conclusion: Protecting Mental Health, Protecting Rights
It is important to remember that our actions can have a lasting impact. By fostering empathy, advocating for reproductive rights, public health, supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, and promoting mental health, we create a society that values each individual’s humanity. Our mental health is deeply intertwined with the health of our communities and the protections afforded to us by our rights.
In this time of uncertainty, we must be the change we wish to see. By protecting mental health and reproductive rights, we help ourselves and future generations live freely and with dignity.
