The 2024 election was, to say the least, a shock to the system for many of us. For countless transgender people and our allies, the reality of another four years with a Trump administration brings a whirlwind of emotions. Fear, anger, confusion, and anxiety have become an unwelcome presence in our lives. As a transgender woman who has spent the past few days counseling friends, engaging with community members online, and digging deep into my own soul, I’ve come to understand that finding peace in these times is essential. Not just for our mental well-being but as a foundation for resilience and activism.
Political upheaval impacts everyone differently, but for transgender individuals—especially our youth—these changes can shake us to the core. I fear for them deeply, yet I’m reminded that while we can’t change what’s happened, we can forge a path forward. In this article, we’ll explore ways to cope with anxiety in the face of political uncertainty and find the inner strength to protect ourselves and our community. Let’s learn how to ground ourselves, find peace within, and prepare for whatever comes next.
Embrace the Reality and Recognize Your Emotions
One of the first steps in dealing with any challenging situation is accepting the reality of it. Trying to deny what’s happened or dismissing your feelings can lead to bottled-up emotions and eventually more significant mental strain. Allow yourself to feel the shock, sadness, and fear—it’s okay to feel these things, even if you’re exhausted from holding it all together.
Let your emotions come to the surface without judgment. Journal them, cry them out, or discuss them with someone you trust. Sometimes, simply acknowledging that “yes, I’m scared” or “I feel hurt” can lighten the weight on your shoulders. Remember, you’re not alone in this; we’re in this together.
Find Grounding Practices to Anchor Yourself
During times of stress and political turbulence, grounding exercises can be powerful. Grounding means anchoring yourself in the present moment, and there are various techniques you can use.
- Breathwork: Practicing deep breathing can calm your nervous system and make you feel more in control. Try this exercise: inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and pause for four. Repeat as needed.
- Body Awareness: Pay attention to the sensations in your body—notice where you feel tension, then actively release it. Stretch, roll your shoulders, or take a short walk. Movement is a reminder that you’re alive, present, and resilient.
- Visualize a Safe Space: Imagine yourself in a place where you feel completely safe, whether it’s a beach, a forest, or a cozy room. This mental exercise can reduce anxiety and provide a mental escape during tense moments.
Anchoring yourself in the present moment won’t change the future, but it gives you the clarity and strength to confront it.
Create a Support Network and Seek Community
In times of political uncertainty, it’s essential to avoid isolating yourself. The LGBTQ+ community is no stranger to resilience, and there’s strength in numbers. Reach out to friends, family, or online communities that provide comfort and validation. Whether it’s joining a support group, connecting through a safe social media space, or finding a local LGBTQ+ organization, staying connected can reduce feelings of isolation and amplify our collective power.
We may be few, but we’re mighty. Building a coalition of allies and supporters is crucial—talk to cisgender friends, family members, and allies who can offer additional perspectives and support. Together, we’re stronger, more informed, and better equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead.
Focus on What You Can Control
A lot of fear comes from feeling powerless. This election may not have gone the way many hoped, but instead of getting lost in what we cannot change, focus on what’s within your control. Redirect your energy toward constructive actions, no matter how small they may seem. Here are some ideas:
- Stay Informed: Follow reputable sources for news that affects the transgender community. Knowledge is power, and staying informed helps you feel prepared.
- Plan Your Next Steps: Whether it’s updating legal documents, connecting with affirming healthcare providers, or supporting LGBTQ+ organizations, making proactive decisions about your well-being is empowering.
- Engage in Advocacy: Reach out to your local representatives, support LGBTQ+ campaigns, and use your voice. Whether big or small, every effort matters.
Focusing on what we can control can help combat the overwhelming sense of helplessness and guide us toward productive, affirming actions.
Set Boundaries for Your Mental Health
In times of political change, constant media consumption can heighten anxiety. You don’t need to be informed every minute of every day. Set limits for yourself: maybe you check the news once or twice a day, or you decide not to engage in political conversations online if they’re too draining.
Additionally, give yourself permission to say “no” when you need to. Whether it’s declining a conversation about politics or taking a step back from social media, setting boundaries is a form of self-care. Remember, preserving your mental health doesn’t mean you’re ignoring reality; it means you’re preparing yourself to face it head-on when you’re ready.
Practice Self-Compassion
It’s easy to be hard on ourselves in times of stress, thinking we should be stronger or better prepared. But self-compassion is essential for navigating these waters. Speak kindly to yourself, even when you’re feeling vulnerable or scared.
Remind yourself of the struggles you’ve already overcome and of the strength you’ve shown time and again. You’re here, you’re surviving, and that’s enough. Each day you get through is a victory. Celebrate the small victories, even if it’s just making it through the day.
Embrace and Nourish Your Passions
When life feels overwhelming, turn to things that bring you joy or a sense of fulfillment. Art, music, nature, cooking, reading, dancing, or anything that lets you express yourself can be a powerful antidote to stress. Allowing time for these activities doesn’t mean you’re ignoring the world; it means you’re giving yourself the space to recharge so you can continue fighting.
Passion gives us a reason to keep going, something to look forward to. Hold onto what brings you happiness and let it be a source of peace in turbulent times.
Look to the Future and Cultivate Resilience
The future is uncertain, and while we may face tough times, it’s essential to remind ourselves that we’re not alone in this journey. Our resilience is rooted in our history, in the LGBTQ+ activists who came before us and paved the way for us today. We’re standing on the shoulders of giants, and while the path may be rocky, we have the strength and the legacy of our community guiding us.
Consider how you can help build a better future—not just for yourself but for future generations. Volunteer, advocate, and be a role model for others. You don’t have to do it all, but each small effort contributes to a greater, more inclusive world.
Protecting Our Rights While Finding Inner Peace
It’s easy to feel disillusioned, to fear that everything we’ve fought for will be undone. Yet, history shows that even during the darkest times, communities have found ways to protect and uplift one another. We must come together as a community, united in purpose, and advocate fiercely for ourselves and each other.
At the same time, we must balance activism with self-care. Fighting for our rights does not mean we have to sacrifice our peace entirely. Instead, it’s about finding a balance where we can live our lives meaningfully while standing up for what’s right.
It’s easy to feel that our voices don’t matter, but nothing could be further from the truth. Every act of kindness, every ally we welcome, every voice we raise in support of equality contributes to the movement. This journey isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving despite the odds.
Hold onto hope, not as a passive wish, but as an active belief in our resilience. The fight for our rights is ongoing, but remember, you are stronger and braver than you may feel right now. And while we may face challenges ahead, we’ll face them together—every step of the way.
The Bottom Line
Uncertain times test us, but they also reveal our inner strength. As we navigate the next few years, remember that it’s okay to feel the weight of the world on your shoulders—but you don’t have to carry it alone. Lean on each other, look for moments of peace, and, most importantly, believe in the resilience of our community.
This moment in history will pass, and we will continue to thrive, building a world that values and celebrates every part of who we are. In the meantime, let’s stand together, find peace where we can, and keep moving forward. You’re not alone—together, we are powerful beyond measure.
