New years and new ways: The power of political activism

As we enter another year, we look back on the previous one - a year filled with ups and downs, war and distractions, pain and suffering. Our lives have become more politicised than ever before; it appears that in a world of advanced technology, we can also engage with each other and in politics in a positive and life-changing way.

The past year has brought significant social and political shifts, and we've continued to see the right-wing media attack the most vulnerable section of our communities. High-profile women challenging the status quo and exposing misogyny faced backlash, while trans individuals and immigrants endured vicious attacks from ultra-right ideologies.

So many of these campaigns against minority groups are coordinated, deeply discriminatory and misogynistic. In my view, the cycle of fierce backlash from men in response to the rising fifth wave of feminism reached its peak in 2024 with men like Donald J. Trump, Elon Musk and Andrew Tate coming to the forefront of our minds so very often.

The psychological toll of global conflict

I wish to enter this new year with a fresh way of communicating and engaging with others in a manner that will help to be constructive rather than destructive. Without this, we remain trapped in a cycle of repeating ourselves endlessly and spreading negative messages. This vicious cycle benefits no one and hinders our ability to become loving and caring as individuals for our family, friends, and society, which obstructs our growth and development towards prosperity.

On a personal level, watching the issues flying around on the global landscape, what does that mean for us in the psychology of politics as in the therapy room? Do these looming yet scary issues enter into our minds day to day, and how can we make sense of them in the therapeutic room? Are we aware that these global issues entering into our lives can have ramifications for our mental and emotional health?

Therapy is fundamentally about healing and change, and the concept of healing relationships needs to take over the constant and incessant hurting between the nations of the East and the West. When will this war-driven international relationship come to an end? We must ask ourselves, do we, as the public, have a say? We keep hearing about freedom of choice and democratic elections of our leaders. Still, when it comes to our representatives - the leaders dealing with outside communities - it more often turns into death and destruction.

Our finances are spent on arming and bombing other countries, while people at home struggle to live on the breadline. We become hopeless and helpless, our opposition goes to deaf ears, and our protests encounter a large number of police presence and arrests. Where is the democracy in that? No wonder we develop symptoms of illnesses such as depression, anxiety, fear, phobia, and more. Our governments take us for granted and use us for their own power struggles at the expense of millions dying every year here at home and abroad.

According to a UN report, in 2016, more countries experienced violent conflict than at any point in almost 30 years. At the same time, conflicts are becoming more fragmented. For example, the number of armed groups involved in the Syrian civil war has grown from eight to several thousand since the outbreak of the conflict and the meddling of the West with the domestic affairs of the region. Today, almost half a million people across the world have been killed in homicides, It has been declared as an emergency and calls for states to act on it. The homicide killings are far beyond the 89,000 killed in active armed conflicts and the 19,000 deaths in terrorist attacks.

International conflict remains the primary driver of terrorism, with more than 99% of all terrorist-related deaths occurring in countries involved in a violent conflict or with high levels of political terror. In the UK alone, domestic violence and violence against women and other minority groups are at a staggering level and it has been declared as an emergency by the government for a policy change to reverse the trend.

How do we become involved in it to win it? It is time to start changing our ways, or we might destroy ourselves, too. As a feminist existential and humanistic therapist, I feel that we can work through these political issues in therapy and become much more aware and active in dealing with them. Hence, we feel in control - not out of control.

Political activism: A catalyst for change and healing

When I refer to New Year’s resolution as part of my political stand, I aim to intentionally make a difference and help others do the same. The violence on social media and harassment campaigns against certain individuals manufactured by the powerful and rich to outrage and intimidate others who do not agree with them have become increasingly terrifying and dangerous. Only political activism can identify the problem and bring it to the forefront of the masses to see and act on it.

In what ways can we make a change, or how can we influence our leaders to adopt a more friendly or compassionate approach to resolving some issues at home and international conflicts? Why are they often in disputes with each other? Why is Russia or China the biggest enemy? Is it just a patriarchal muscle-flexing exercise? If we are threatened by them, is that really true? In what ways are you and I threatened? Is it all about financial threats? If so, how relevant is it to us as ordinary people working very hard every day to make our needs met? Financial threats are perhaps all about multi-millionaires or billionaires. Do they do much for us, so why do our leaders create wars to protect the rich and powerful? What about us who will protect us?

Political activism (PA) helps you realise your power and aim to make the world a better place. It is good for our mental and emotional health as it gives us a sense of worth and value in helping others. It can be life-changing. Political activism has been protected and maintained like an elite sport for too long. Whether you are passionate about your own well-being, environmental issues, social justice, or health care policies in the NHS, becoming a political activist allows you to use your voice and actions to influence decision-makers and shape policies to change things at their root.

Becoming politically active is a meaningful way to feel empowered and help create positive change as it can have a powerful therapeutic effect and make a difference. It requires self-care, education, commitment, and a willingness to take action.

How to become a political activist

1. Educate yourself

The first step to becoming involved is to educate yourself about the issues that matter to you. Conduct thorough research, and spend plenty of time reading about them. 

2. Join a group

Many organisations or groups are dedicated to political activism, and you can find one that aligns with your values, such as mental health charities like MIND and Mental Health Foundation. 

3. Take action

Participate in campaigns, volunteer, or attend events. Small steps can have significant impacts.

4. Use your voice

Speak out through social media, writing, or community events. Advocacy starts with raising awareness.

5. Be an ally to a cause

Support marginalised communities by standing against harassment and discrimination.

6. Support minority-led businesses

Empower women and other minority groups by choosing to support their ventures.

7. Practice non-judgment

Avoid perpetuating biases or stereotypes, especially towards women and minority groups.

8. Stay committed

Activism requires persistence, dedication and emotional intelligence. Please stay informed, engaged and active even when progress is slow or impossible. 

9. Build an emotionally intelligent community around you

Surround yourself with emotionally intelligent and like-minded individuals who can help sustain your efforts.

The therapeutic benefits of activism

Over the years, the concept of being an ally has gained increasing attention. This is especially crucial during a time of heightened political and social conflict. If someone is being harassed, don’t ignore it. Does this mean you need to throw a punch? Definitely not. Simply approaching the person and becoming their new friend can remedy the situation, which can provide you with a sense of connection and alleviate loneliness in return on a deeper level.

Be mindful that political activism is not just about a single issue – it’s about working towards creating a more just and equitable society for everyone. This might last a lifetime, but that is OK; life with a purpose is said to be more meaningful than without. So, find the issues that matter to you, get involved, and make your voice heard. I am going to be doing the same.