Numb, Divided, and Exhausted: How I’m Reclaiming Joy Amidst Political Overwhelm
Numb, Divided, and Exhausted: How I’m Reclaiming Joy Amidst Political Overwhelm
I’ll admit it—sometimes the weight of it all feels like too much. The political noise, the constant news cycle, the polarizing headlines—it creeps in slowly, and before I know it, it’s lodged itself deep in my brain. My thoughts swirl, I start doom-scrolling, and soon, even the simple things I normally look forward to—my workouts, connecting with friends, planning my next trip—feel heavy, almost pointless. It’s as if the stress has numbed me, like I’m watching life behind a thick, blurry pane of glass.
It wasn’t always like this. But over the last several years (and especially in the last few months), the political climate in the U.S. has shifted so drastically, it’s hard not to feel the tension in every conversation, every holiday dinner, every social feed. I’ve seen firsthand how it’s divided families, ended friendships, and caused damage that—if I’m honest—feels irreparable in some cases. The trust is gone. The connection frayed. And it breaks my heart.
The strange thing is, the toll of all this political stress doesn’t always show up as fiery anger or protest. For me, it often shows up looking suspiciously like depression. A kind of dull exhaustion. A desire to retreat, tune out, and stop trying. It makes me wonder: Is this depression? Or is it the side effect of living in a world so polarized, so chaotic, that my nervous system doesn’t know where to land? Is this NORMAL? Is it my NEW normal? NOOOO!!!! I won't let it be.
I don’t claim to have all the answers. But here’s what I do know: sitting in that stuck, overwhelmed space isn’t sustainable. It chips away at my joy, my energy, and even my relationships. So I’ve learned to ask myself: What small thing can I do today to feel a spark again?
Here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be big. Sometimes it’s as simple as savoring a square of dark chocolate without distraction. Making myself a Kiely Mocktail and playing my favorite music. Walking a sweet dog (especially mine) and letting myself laugh at it’s goofiness. Volunteering, even if it’s just for a short shift. Losing myself in a good book. Meeting a new friend for coffee. Planning a trip to see my BFF. Letting myself indulge without guilt. Yes, I said it. I’m enjoying more chocolate than ever these days.
Sometimes it’s escaping altogether—house and pet sitting in a new city, wandering down unfamiliar streets, remembering that the world is still full of good people, friendly conversations, and quiet moments of beauty. That reminder always seems to soften the edges.
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed too—if the stress has numbed you, or the division has left you feeling isolated—let me just say: I see you. I feel it too. And maybe, just maybe, it’s time to give yourself permission to seek out the small pleasures again. Even the tiniest sparks of joy matter.
Find one today. Tomorrow, find another. Share it with a friend. Make a new one. Walk a dog. Eat more chocolate. Have the drink.
Why not? It can’t hurt.
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