I must confess that I’ve been somewhat preoccupied and oblivious in various aspects of my post-election existence. The steady flow of distressing news regarding declining civil rights, new threats to national security, environmental issues, and an assault on the truth has left me feeling overwhelmed. In the midst of this chaos, I lost sight of a critical concern: the emotional well-being of my young patients, aged 10 and 11.
In my effort to keep politics out of the examination room, I neglected to check in on my patients about the significant issue looming over us all: President Trump. It was actually a fellow physician who encouraged me to ask my young patients how they felt in the wake of the election. After witnessing her own patients express deep anxiety, I felt a pang of embarrassment for not recognizing that the same election-related stress impacting me could also be affecting them.
Later that day, during a discussion reflecting on our annual health assembly, I cautiously broached the topic. What I encountered was eye-opening.
To my surprise, every single one of my patients possessed a far greater understanding of the election and political discourse than I had anticipated. They were aware of the staggering 3 million votes by which Hillary Clinton led the popular vote, and they had followed the antics of rogue NASA and National Park Service Twitter accounts. Their knowledge spanned topics from “alternative facts” to the marches that captured national attention, complete with “pussy” hats. They knew about Russian interference in the election, Trump’s plans for a border wall, and the discrimination faced by Muslims versus Christians entering the U.S. The breadth of their understanding was impressive.
While I had previously encouraged them to stay informed about the candidates and current events, I found myself at a loss post-election. I felt ill-equipped to navigate the tumultuous waters of truth in the context of my practice, particularly within the confines of my office.
Despite my attempts to sidestep political discussions, it became clear that my patients were not oblivious. I asked them where they were getting their information. Some mentioned discussions at home, but many reported picking up news from overheard adult conversations—words that were perhaps not meant for their ears. Others relied on news through their smartphones, tablets, radios, and TVs. It was apparent that political discourse was seeping into their lives, whether they intended it or not.
As I listened to their accounts of heightened stress, increased anger, and a sense of despair, I recognized the far-reaching effects the election had on family dynamics. They described how their parents seemed more irritable and often sad. One child poignantly remarked, “There is just less happiness in our home.”
After our conversation, it became evident that ignoring the political landscape in my practice wasn’t a viable solution. I reassured my young patients that I would be more attentive to their feelings and made a personal commitment to find constructive ways to address their concerns in our sessions. I also inquired about what they did at home to cope. Some mentioned playing, while others shared that their families had turned off the TV. One patient meditated with her mother, while two others participated in a Women’s March with their parents.
While not every family is struggling with the policies of the new administration, it appeared that many at my practice were facing challenges. The large turnout at protest marches suggests that numerous parents share similar sentiments.
This political climate represents uncharted territory for today’s youth. When I was in fifth grade, most of us were barely aware of who was president, let alone the intricacies of the electoral process. Adults managed the concerns, often in private. Today, however, politics is louder and more divisive than ever before. We must be mindful about how we discuss current events with children; they are listening.
In addition to engaging them in open conversations, we should empower children by encouraging proactive measures. Participating in protests helped some of my young patients feel a sense of hope. Parents can also channel their child’s anxieties into productive actions, such as identifying their concerns and exploring solutions together. Joining organizations, fundraising, writing letters, or engaging in community service can foster a sense of agency, making children feel less helpless and nurturing them into informed, engaged citizens.
In conclusion, the political climate today demands a shift in how we communicate with young people. Our responsibility as adults is not just to shield them from distress but to help them navigate their feelings and encourage them to take positive action.
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