Understanding politico-anxiety

The term politico-anxiety describes a type of anxiety linked to political instability or perceived threats in the political environment. It can lead to symptoms like insomnia, stress, anger, and a sense of helplessness, even though it is not yet officially recognized in psychology textbooks.

American concerns

According to the Stress in America survey, 77% of Americans feel anxious about the future of their country. In France, the unexpected dissolution of the National Assembly in June 2024 caused a significant psychological impact, with some people describing it as a "psychic coup d'état."

Personal experiences

Nina, a 39-year-old French woman, recalls feeling anxious during the pandemic when President Emmanuel Macron declared "We are at war." She found the lockdown restrictions, like the ban on moving more than a kilometer from home, especially unsettling due to their direct impact on daily life.

Political instability

Psychiatrist Antoine Pelissolo explains that frequent government changes and unclear political directions contribute to anxiety. He notes that patients are worried about issues like loss of purchasing power and job insecurity, as traditional political references lose relevance in modern society.

Information overload

Philosopher Elsa Godart highlights how digital saturation contributes to politico-anxiety. The constant flow of information from various sources makes it hard for individuals to process, judge, or act on what they learn, leading to a sense of powerlessness and confusion.

Anxiety as motivation

Psychiatrist Nicolas Neveux points out that politico-anxiety affects not only those worried about their livelihood but also those who feel their efforts are futile. He compares it to a game with constantly changing rules, leading to feelings of insecurity and disconnection from political systems.

Finding meaning through action

Émilie, a 46-year-old woman, shares how helping Ukrainian refugees in her town reduced her anxiety. She found that concrete actions, such as organizing charity events, helped her feel more in control and less overwhelmed by global events.

Anxiety as a useful function

Antoine Pelissolo notes that anxiety is a natural brain function that helps people anticipate problems and protect themselves. However, it is important to avoid getting stuck in negative projections and to focus on the present rather than everything that might happen in the future.

Youth and political engagement

Younger generations show a different attitude toward politics. While 70% of those aged 12 to 30 distrust political leaders, 64% believe they can make a difference through associations and social media. This suggests a shift in how political engagement is approached in the digital age.

Informed but balanced

Elsa Godart warns that governments may benefit from creating a political climate based on fear and urgency. To reduce anxiety, individuals should be selective about when and how they consume information, avoiding alarmist content and seeking reliable sources. Disconnecting from social media algorithms can also help avoid being trapped in pessimistic information bubbles.