How to Emotionally Cope With Trump’s Inauguration

There is an aura of doom and gloom surrounding this Friday as president elect Donald Trump is inaugurated. It feels like the end of the world or some cruel joke but it is very much a harsh reality. For many it will be huge low point and cause for emotional turmoil and so I have decided to compile a list of things to do or keep in mind, to encourage and motivate self-care to lessen the load.

1. Share your feelings – It is never healthy to bottle up your thoughts and emotions especially on such a grand scale. Take to forums, social media, your friends and family an air it all out. It won’t change the outcome, but it might make you feel less alone
2. Find company– Being alone with your feelings is a hard task to accomplish on any normal day, so on a day like this seek out comfort. If you’re unfortunate enough to have  a Trump supporting family and your home is not a safe place, I urge you to go to a friend or relative’s house or seek out a distraction in the form of sleep or television.
3. Join the @GeeksOfColor Civil war tweet #FreedomNotFear 
4. Volunteer at local clinics or human rights organizations– Seeings as Trump is trying to deny basic human rights to so many with his bigotry, you pave your own way for change. Pledge your time to help those in need and give yourself the hope that there are people out there willing to help others.
5. Build an imaginary wall against his hatred– Just like he plans to build a wall, nothing is stopping you from doing the same in your head. If it helps block out his words as best you can, and embrace your race, religion and sexuality even more just to spite him.
6. Seek out humour– Humour is one of my personal favourite coping mechanisms and has gotten me through some of the toughest moments of my life. I would recommend a downward spiral of watching YouTube videos from Last Week Tonight with John Oliver or The Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert, both of which are excellent commentators on the current political climate.

In truth, I wish I could provide a collective hug to the world on Friday, because we will all might need it. Don’t forget to try and put yourself first and always know you are not alone. Also if you are lucky enough, try and attend the Washington Women’s March on Saturday!