Taking care of yourself when the news is hard
Most LGBTQ+ people say politics has taken a toll on their well-being. You can stay informed without letting it take over.
Key takeaways
- 90% of LGBTQ+ young people say recent politics hurt their well-being.
- Setting limits on news is a recommended way to cope.
- Community and taking action can help you feel less alone.
If the news has been wearing you down, you're far from alone. Surveys keep finding that political events are taking a real toll on LGBTQ+ people.
90%
of LGBTQ+ young people say recent politics hurt their well-being
73%
of LGBTQ+ adults say state politics harmed their well-being
84%
of trans and nonbinary adults say the same
Know your limits with the news
The American Psychological Association suggests staying informed but knowing your limits, for example by checking the news at set times instead of all day. Turning off notifications for a while is a reasonable choice, not a lack of caring.
“Stay informed, but know your limits.”
Lean on your people
The APA also recommends finding support in community, faith, or other groups. For LGBTQ+ people, that might be a local center, a group chat, or friends who get it. See how to find peer support.
Do something, even something small
Getting involved in a cause you care about can help you feel less powerless. That could be volunteering at an LGBTQ+ center, showing up for a local meeting, or helping a friend find a good provider.
Take care of the basics
Sleep, movement, time outside, and time doing things you enjoy all help. The APA also advises against using alcohol or drugs to cope.
Sources
- The Trevor Project, 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People
- Movement Advancement Project, New Survey Reveals Dramatic Changes for LGBTQ Adults Since November 2024, October 2025
- American Psychological Association, Managing stress related to political change
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