The Hamilton Family Health Team offers free health education programs, led by healthcare providers, such as mental health counsellors, physiotherapists, registered dietitians, registered pharmacists, and more. These groups and workshops are available to the public, both in person and virtually.
The Stress Management Workshop Series is a series of workshops to learn strategies to reduce stress and improve general wellness. Topics include lifestyle factors such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, mindfulness and self-compassion can reduce stress as well as dealing with news-related stress.
Samm Floren, Registered Social Worker and one of the facilitators for the Stress Management Series, shares five tips to manage political stress and uncertainty.
Political tension and uncertainty affect us all—whether it’s through the constant news cycle, community conversations, or social media platforms. While we can’t control the headlines, we can control how we care for ourselves and others through it.
1. Acknowledge How You Feel
Recognizing your stress—and realizing others feel it too—helps build connection and resilience.
Tip: It’s okay to feel unsettled, and naming those feelings is the first step in managing them.
2. Stay Informed, but Take Breaks
Choose credible sources and set boundaries around your media intake.
Tip: Set time limits, mute notifications, and take regular social media breaks to recharge mentally.
3. Get Involved in Your Community
Taking action can transform worry into empowerment. When you engage in causes you care about, you turn stress into connection and impact.
Tip: Volunteer, donate, attend a local event, or help spread awareness in your circles.
4. Practice Mindfulness Daily
Mindfulness won’t erase political stress, but it can help you notice it and respond with calmness and clarity. Paying attention to the present moment—without judgment—can reduce emotional overwhelm.
Tip: Try mindful moments by noticing all of your senses while cooking, walking, doing dishes, etc.
5. Lean into Support Systems
Managing stress is easier when you’re not doing it alone. The Hamilton Family Health Team offers free wellness programs to support your physical and mental health.
- Healthy Ways to Handle Life’s Stressors: Thurs. July 10, 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
- Mindful Ways to Wellness: Thurs. July 17, 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
- Food and Mood: Thurs. July 24, 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
- Physical Activity to Manage Stress: Thurs. July 31, 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
- Tips to Deal News Related Stress: Thurs. August 7, 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
- Alcohol and Your Health: Thurs. August 14, 2:30pm to 4:00 pm
