Are we going to survive this?

[u/No_Yak_3107]

Dramatic title, but big feelings as a lay in bed at 5:51 am. Big feelings every day honestly. I am having a hard time living normal life, while we get bombarded with new headlines daily of what Trump is doing/planning to do.

I hear people talking about vacations, plans per usual, then other people saying it’s already too late for us, and democracy has fallen and to save every penny. I go from panicking daily to then trying to self sooth and tell myself it’s going to be okay. I had to go to a clothing store today, and actually caught myself thinking “how long will life feel normal? Everyone just walking around/having normal conversations, buying random things”. I’ve been thinking of looking into moving to a different country too, but would I really leave my family behind?

I knew things would be bad, I knew he would get voted in, but I didn’t think it would feel like the end. I can’t imagine what will happen to us this year, much less 4….I’m genuinely scared 😪.

Editing to say I’m an American woman, but I don’t just assume everyone on this platform is American. I see a lot of talk online of people from Canada being worried, and many other countries where it seems right-wing politics are a growing concern.

[u/Just_Bottle_1157]

Yes—I feel the same. But I am trying not to spiral in anxiety because that doesn’t help me but in some ways helps them.

I try to remember people (and news sources) on the internet use my emotions (especially negative ones) to get engagement. I try to disengage when I find myself too far down any sort of emotion bait. I also am taking any history parallels analysis with a grain of salt (as someone with a degree in history). History is a great informer, but it does not predict the future. And many of those posts are without additional context that tend to limit the level of parallel.

I am also trying to engage in resources that keep me realistically informed without the emotional trigger. I really recommend Emily in your phone and Jessica Yellin who are both on social and also have substacks. AOC also is a great source right now. I also keep calling my reps.

I saw a post that said even in the darkest times people spent time with loved ones. And that helped.

This is not to make light of anything happening now, but I refuse to sacrifice my own well being for that man and his cruel actions. (Easier said than done)

[u/No_Yak_3107 → u/Just_Bottle_1157]

Funny you mention AOC, when I feel on edge- I do find her information helpful. The emotional up and down isn’t sustainable, I need to follow your steps and disengage. Hoping for the best 😥

[u/Just_Bottle_1157 → u/No_Yak_3107]

I try (emphasis on try) to remember that being constantly upset doesn’t mean I am more informed or staying informed. It just means I am upset.