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Amélie Boukhobza (Clinical psychologist)
Since the announcement of the dissolution of the National Assembly by the President of the Republic, many psychologists have reported signs of anxiety that are more present in their patients. Why does political news affect our mental health so much? Amélie Boukhobza, psychologist, explains it to us.
Have you been sleeping poorly since June 9? Don’t you feel calm? You are not alone. According to information reported by The Parisian, many French people are currently victims of bursts of anxiety, sweating or even insomnia. And mental health professionals confirm an increase in consultations over the past ten days. A reaction which would be directly linked to dissolution and the unknown into which it plunges us. Even far from politics, this decision impacts our mental health. Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist, and member of our committee of experts, sees 4 major reasons.
Uncertainties and loss of control
According to our psychologist, it is obvious that the dissolution of the National Assembly by the president could have caused renewed anxiety in the population (if indeed it had diminished…). This is easily understood because of the uncertainties that this generates: political, economic and social uncertainties.
“The loss of bearings and control, as well as uncertainty about future political decisions and their impact on daily life, are all aggravating factors of stress and anxiety. Not to mention increased conflicts and divisions between different parties, which generate confusion.
A personal feeling of insecurity
This loss of direction and this current vagueness are not only anxiety-provoking on the screen or in the newspapers. They have reason to question the stability of markets, employment, and personal finances. “These aspects are direct sources of anxiety, because they affect basic needs for security and subsistence. underlines Amélie Boukhobza. The climate of distrust, particularly towards democratic institutions, also causes a feeling of insecurity and vulnerability, reinforcing collective anxiety.
“Individuals may fear that their rights and voices will be less respected or protected.”
Permanent information (and disinformation)
The way we absorb this news is also a distressing point. The rapid circulation of information and the misinformation that comes one after the other (you only have to open your Twitter feed to be aware of it) can also amplify anxiety.
“The media and social networks tend to spread alarmist or contradictory news, making it difficult for individuals to discern the truth and feel reliably informed. recognizes our expert.
Strained family and social relationships
Last point: this political crisis can also affect interpersonal relationships. “Political debates within families and social circles often become the subject of conflict, further increasing the stress and anxiety. Strained relationships can erode social support, essential for managing stress, and thus contribute to a spiral of deterioration in collective mental health.
11 days before the first round of the legislative elections, we will have to come to our senses and learn to keep a cool heade. “It’s also time to stop watching the news all the time” concludes our expert.
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