The Mental Toll of Post-Election Chaos: A Black Woman’s Perspective

As a Black woman, I’m exhausted. Not just tired, not just annoyed—mentally drained. It’s not just about who won or lost, but about the way people act afterward. The arguments don’t stop. The news doesn’t stop. The tension lingers in the air, making even the simplest conversations feel like walking through a minefield. And let’s be real—our mental health is taking the hit.
The Weight of History on Our Shoulders
February is Black History Month, a time when we celebrate our strength, resilience, and the legacies of those who came before us. But honestly? It’s also a reminder that we’ve been here before. Our ancestors fought for the right to vote, to have a voice, to be seen as full citizens in a country that often preferred to ignore or suppress us. And now, even after all that struggle, we’re still dealing with political systems that don’t always work in our favor, with policies that impact our communities in ways that feel deeply personal.
This history weighs on us, especially when we feel like we’re fighting the same battles in different forms. It’s heavy. And that heaviness, combined with the chaos of post-election America, can take a real toll on our mental well-being.
Protecting Our Peace in the Chaos
So, how do we care for ourselves in the middle of all this?
Unplug When Necessary – We can stay informed without drowning in the noise. Take breaks from the news, step away from debates that don’t serve your peace, and set boundaries with people who drain your energy.
Acknowledge the Stress, but Don’t Carry It Alone – Talk to someone. Whether it’s a friend, therapist, or support group, don’t keep the stress bottled up. Our mental health deserves just as much care as our physical health.
Honor Black History by Prioritizing Joy – Our ancestors fought for more than just survival—they fought for joy, for community, for the ability to thrive. This month, let’s honor their legacy by doing things that nourish our spirits. Listen to music that uplifts, read the words of Black writers who inspire, and celebrate the progress we have made.
Advocate for Change, But Rest Too – Activism and awareness are important, but burnout is real. We don’t have to fight every battle at once. It’s okay to step back, recharge, and come back when we’re ready.
Moving Forward, Together
Politics will always be messy. Elections will always bring out the best and worst in people. But we don’t have to let it steal our peace. As we navigate this post-election season and celebrate Black History Month, let’s hold space for both the struggle and the joy. Let’s protect our mental health, honor our history, and move forward in ways that serve us—not just politically, but emotionally and spiritually, too.
Because at the end of the day, we deserve that.

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