Behavioral Health

The information below offers insights and raises awareness about behavioral health programs and services, including to cope, and how you can Take Action!

Coping with Feelings of Stress and Anxiety from the Current Political Life Pressures

A recent report from Modern Health found 75% of U.S. employees are experiencing, feeling hopeless, as well as experiencing anxiety from worry and fear of our future, primarily from current political stress and current events. As a result, many workers are in the need for enhanced mental health benefits in the workplace. Nearly half believe life was easier during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, most workers acknowledge that political turmoil negatively affects their mental health and workplace culture, with 71% reporting it as a barrier to a positive environment. Half of employed Americans are pessimistic about the country's direction, with 59% of female employees and 56% of Gen Z feeling similarly. Current events, particularly global political and economic turmoil, are major mental health stressors, outpacing concerns like crime and finances. Nearly all workers (96%) report engaging with news stories that negatively impact their mental health, including Federal agency changes, government budget cuts, and data breaches. A significant number of employees are reconsidering their careers due to these pressures, emphasizing the need for supportive mental health resources at work. Meanwhile, the following provide tips to help you cope during these unbalanced times.

Tips for Practicing Mental Health

Stay Informed, But Limit Media Intake: Designate specific times to catch up on news to avoid constant anxiety.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises or meditation to help manage stress and improve mood
Connect with Others: Foster strong relationships with colleagues by discussing challenges and supporting one another (visit Navigating Difficult Conversations)
Set Boundaries: Create boundaries around work hours and personal time to prevent burnout.
Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise can greatly enhance mood and reduce stress levels - walking, running, taking time in the outdoors, etc. (visit Self-Care)
Utilize Workplace Resources: Take advantage of mental health benefits and programs offered by your employer or school or college
Seek Professional Help: Reach out for counseling or therapy to address feelings of anxiety or depression.

For additional help, visit:

Self Care (Gratitude, Envisioning Improvement, and Mindfulness and Positivity).
Navigating Difficult Conversations (Strategies for Discussing Controversial Topics Effectively)

If You Need Immediate Help

Call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Caring counselors are available to listen and provide free and confidential support 24/7.
Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor for free and confidential support 24/7.
For Teens, contact Teen Line at 800-852-8336 (6pm-10pm PST) or Text TEEN to 839863 (6pm-9pm PST)
Not in the United States? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide.
Call 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel safe to do so.

References

The Workforce Mental Health Crisis of 2025: Key Insights for Employers. (2025). Modernhealth. https://explore.modernhealth.com/2025-trends/elevate-insights-march-2025?utm_source=media%5B%E2%80%A6%5Dm=press-release&utm_campaign=elevate-insights-march-2025

Zhang, D., Lee, E. K. P., Mak, E. C. W., Ho, C. Y., & Wong, S. Y. S. (2021). Mindfulness-based interventions: an overall review. British Medical Bulletin, 138(1), 41–57. https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/ldab005