Therapists, too, are noticing an influx of clients seeking support for political stress and depression. Political depression drains energy, reduces participation, and reshapes those who enter politics. Young voters increasingly express scepticism about their ability to influence political outcomes and, as such, joining political organisations feels exhausting. Ironically, this starts a vicious cycle of citizens perceiving politics as transactional and detached from ordinary concerns, adding to the political depression. Political depression thrives on gloomy inevitability while cheerful mobilisation challenges that inevitability by making participation appear worthwhile.

Source: The Telegraph March 28, 2026 02:30 UTC