"According to the American Psychological Association's latest Stress in America™ 2025 survey, societal division has emerged as a major source of stress for U.S. adults. Conducted online by The Harris Poll, the survey found that 62% of 3,000 adults, ages 18 and older, identified societal division as a significant stressor in their lives. As we head into the holiday season, this finding feels especially relevant. The same gatherings that promise warmth and connection can also stir tension, particularly when social and political differences arise."
"So how do we protect our emotional well-being when surrounded by people whose beliefs and values differ from our own? It's a question more relevant than ever, as social and political polarization becomes not just a headline but a lived experience. Whether it's a fiery debate at the dinner table or a quiet discomfort that lingers in the room, navigating these moments can feel like walking a tightrope between authenticity and harmony."
Sixty-two percent of U.S. adults identified societal division as a significant stressor in a national survey. Holiday gatherings can amplify tension when social and political differences arise, turning opportunities for connection into sources of conflict. Protecting emotional well-being involves balancing authenticity with relationship harmony. Effective approaches include staying curious, showing empathy, practicing active listening, and setting boundaries by pausing or redirecting conversations when they become overwhelming. Prioritizing respectful dialogue and choosing when to disengage can preserve relationships, support mental health, and create safer social spaces despite ongoing political and social polarization.
Read at Psychology Today
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