Experts say that threats, rhetoric, and political uncertainty since Donald Trump took office in the United States are affecting Canadians’ mental health
Recent polls indicate that so-called “Trump anxiety” affects more than 8 in 10 Canadians
“There’s a sense of anxiety about what might happen next, what could come next,” said Sébastien Dallaire, executive vice president of Léger. “Canadians are anxious, but this anxiety is also mixed with anger.”
Léger has conducted weekly polls showing similar feelings across the country
But Dallaire explained that the anxiety isn’t solely due to Donald Trump, but rather is intertwined with other factors
“Trump is exacerbating an already tense political environment and increasing a sense of exhaustion and anxiety among Canadians, especially amid the ongoing effects of the pandemic and inflation.”
At a store in Baie-D’Urfé, shoppers expressed mixed feelings about the situation. “It’s a crazy time,” said Martha Baxter. “Nobody knows what’s going to happen.”
“This guy is unstable, and no one knows what he’s going to do, and that’s scary,” she told CTV
Arthur Ainscough said, “Like most citizens, I’m anxious. I scan the shelves for products from the United States and avoid them and buy Canadian products.”
Janet Ryan expressed her anger, saying, “I’m more angry than anxious because this man is not only destroying his country, but he’s also having a significant impact on the entire world.”
At the same time, psychologists are noticing a rise in anxiety levels among Canadians
Psychologist Linda Pagani said she’s noticed this phenomenon not only in her own practice but also among her friends and acquaintances
“These are all normal reactions, and if there’s anything reassuring, it’s that citizens care a lot,” she said
She explained that protecting mental health in times of chaos is essential, noting that limiting news and social media consumption, spending time outdoors, getting enough sleep, and supporting others can help alleviate this anxiety
She emphasized, “Engaging in charitable acts and supporting others significantly reduces stress and anxiety.”
The US president is affecting Canadians’ mental health, and the majority of citizens suffer from “Trump anxiety.”
