Collective Grief and the Political Climate

As a grief therapist in Seattle, I have noticed an increase in clients expressing emotional distress tied not only to personal loss but also to national and political events. We often think of grief as something tied to the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a specific life event, but there is another form of grief that can feel just as heavy—collective grief. Political events, particularly during divisive times like election seasons, can trigger feelings of mourning and anxiety that ripple across communities. This type of grief is often layered with fear for the future and a sense of powerlessness in the face of societal changes.

What is Collective Grief?

Collective grief refers to the emotional pain experienced by a group or community as a result of shared loss, trauma, or crisis. Unlike personal grief, which stems from individual loss, collective grief is more widespread and can be felt across entire populations. This can occur in the wake of natural disasters, mass shootings, pandemics, or major political events. It taps into a shared sense of loss or fear for the future and can be deeply tied to our identity and values.

 How Political Events Trigger Collective Grief

The Loss of Hope or Ideals:

Elections are often accompanied by a sense of hope for the future. Many people invest their emotional energy in candidates or policies they believe will bring about positive change. When those hopes are dashed, it can feel like the loss of a future that once seemed possible. This grief can be particularly acute for marginalized communities who may see political losses as a setback in the fight for equality and justice.

For example, when election results favor candidates or policies that threaten civil rights, healthcare, or environmental protections, individuals and communities can experience feelings of mourning, not just for what is happening now but for the future they fear may no longer be attainable. This grief can resemble a loss of safety, security, or even identity.

Divisiveness and Polarization:

In times of intense political polarization, relationships can become strained. Friends, families, and communities may find themselves divided over political beliefs. For many, the feeling that we are more divided than ever leads to a pervasive sadness and anxiety about the state of society.

In Seattle and across the U.S., this polarization has created environments where people are increasingly retreating into ideological bubbles, making it harder to bridge gaps in understanding. This emotional distance can intensify collective grief, as we mourn the loss of community cohesion and the possibility of constructive dialogue.

Fear of the Future:

Political events often trigger a deep-seated fear of the future. This anxiety can manifest as a kind of anticipatory grief, where individuals mourn in advance for potential losses. These could be personal rights, freedoms, or societal progress that people fear will be rolled back due to political shifts. This fear is particularly palpable for those who feel vulnerable to changes in leadership or policy.

Ways to Navigate Collective Grief and Anxiety

 While the emotions stirred by collective grief are powerful, there are ways to navigate these feelings and build resilience. Here are some strategies to cope with the emotional impact of political events:

 Acknowledge and Validate Your Emotions:

One of the first steps in dealing with collective grief is recognizing that it is valid. Many people feel guilty or confused about grieving over political outcomes, but these feelings are legitimate. Acknowledge the pain, fear, and sadness that come up, and give yourself permission to feel them. Grief, even when it stems from national events, is a normal response to perceived loss.

Connect with Supportive Communities:

In times of collective grief, finding connection with like-minded individuals or groups can be incredibly healing. Whether through community organizations, online forums, or personal networks, sharing your feelings with others who understand your perspective can ease feelings of isolation. Community solidarity can provide a sense of empowerment and hope, especially when working together toward shared goals or advocacy efforts.

Take Breaks from the News:

While it’s important to stay informed, constant exposure to political news and social media can exacerbate anxiety and grief. Give yourself permission to step away when the emotional toll becomes too high. Limit your news intake, and focus on activities that bring you joy or peace, whether that’s spending time in nature, engaging in a creative project, or practicing mindfulness.

Focus on What You Can Control:

A major aspect of collective grief is the feeling of helplessness in the face of overwhelming political forces. One way to mitigate this is to focus on what you can control. Channel your energy into actions that align with your values, whether that’s volunteering, advocating for causes you believe in, or simply supporting your community. Taking constructive action, no matter how small, can restore a sense of agency and reduce feelings of powerlessness.

Practice Self-Compassion:

Grieving, whether personal or collective, requires self-compassion. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these emotions. Remember that it’s okay to take time for self-care, to set boundaries with people or conversations that feel too overwhelming, and to prioritize your mental and emotional health.

In moments of collective grief, finding ways to heal and rebuild trust in both ourselves and our communities is crucial. The road may be difficult, but together, we can find ways to move forward, even in times of uncertainty and change. I invite you to contact me if you would like to learn more about how grief therapy can help you.