As so many things are in flux, and uncertainty seems to be everywhere you look, how are you holding up?
It is safe to say that the last month has been a busy one. Regardless of how you feel about the changes that are happening, change, by itself, can be very difficult.
In general, we have a preference for the status quo. We understand it, even if we see the flaws and wish things were better. Managing a known, imperfect system, for many of us, is better than introducing changes that might well make things worse (even if they could make things better).
We crave stability. So much so, that many of us devote much of our lives to creating a stable world.
Of course, that stability is an illusion. At any time, your house might burn down, and you could lose everything you own. Your life could be turned upside down with an unfortunate medical diagnosis. An accident can happen to anyone, regardless of age or general health.
In such extreme circumstances, it is important to monitor your own well-being. Knowing when you need a break, or support from loved ones, or an inspirational speech, is important.
With that in mind, here’s the question: How are you holding up? Are you in denial, engaged as never before, or hiding in bed under your covers? What is your mental state in these unusual times?
Related questions: How do you deal with major life changes? How do you perform self-care? Are we too busy? How are we doing?
Not well.
I am, by nature, a hopeful person. I will myself to envision a brighter future, and then I work to help make it possible. This positive spirit proves invaluable in my career — my vocation — advocating for more quality affordable housing, advancing tenants’ rights, and working to end homelessness.
However, I must admit that the past week has been challenging for me. I can feel my mental health deteriorating.
Why? First, the news that the Trump Administration plans to cut the Department of Housing and Urban Development in half contradicts my career goals. The Administration will likely eliminate entire programs. Fewer staff means it will take longer to assist those in need. As a result, people will view the government as unresponsive to their needs, leading to increased discontent toward it. Second, the political winds at the state level do not favor my career goals for the intermediate future. We need massive investments to create more affordable housing, which would help house more people and give tenants more power. However, a substantial anti-tax environment makes responding to the need for additional investments highly unlikely. Finally, unless we can mobilize a significant number of renters, advancing tenants’ rights will be incredibly challenging.
Fortunately, several things bring me joy. My home life is wonderful and supportive; I love my amazing wife, Rebecca, and spunky pup, Luca. Lighter and warmer days are ahead. Soon, I will begin growing vegetable seedlings in my basement — gardening nurtures my mental health. And, a couple of key friendships provide me with the space and time to talk about my ups and downs.
Without the joy in my life, I know that maintaining my mental health would be even more challenging. Still, as mentioned earlier, the prevailing politics of the day have started to weigh me down.
How am I holding up? Not great. I am glad I have support to help me weather these challenging times. However, I worry I need more to endure these dark times.
I’m holding up ok, though more anxious than usual. The worst of the chaos hasn’t affected my federal job yet, but I maintain no illusions that’ll last forever. One way I’m dealing is by using my social media to spread useful information and humor. Perhaps you could call me a digital rallying point, in my own small way.