The study of politics draws from the knowledge and principles of political science, sociology, history, economics, neuroscience , and other related fields to examine and understand the political behavior that ultimately informs government policy and leadership . Exploring these relationships can help us understand how we act collectively, govern ourselves, make political decisions, resolve conflict, and use and abuse power, all of which reflect our deepest fears at least as much as our aspiratio
When Politics Becomes Part of Your Identity
Living with politics over time can lead to a fusion of identity and diagnosis. You may find yourself thinking "I am politics" rather than "I have politics." This identity fusion has significant consequences:
- Reduces motivation (why try if this is just who I am?)
- Increases shame and stigma internalization
- Makes recovery feel like losing part of yourself
- Limits how others see you (and how you see yourself)
Reclaiming a Multidimensional Identity
Your identity is vastly larger than politics. A powerful exercise: complete this sentence 20 times with anything other than your struggles:
"I am someone who ___________"
Values, roles, relationships, interests, history, capabilities — all form your identity.
Politics as One Chapter, Not the Whole Story
Narrative therapy offers a powerful reframe: politics is one story in a much larger life narrative. You are the author, not the character defined by struggle.
Externalizing the problem: Practice talking about "Politics that visits me" rather than "my Politics." This linguistic shift creates psychological distance and agency.
Building Identity Beyond Politics
- Invest in relationships that see your full self, not just your struggles
- Pursue interests unrelated to mental health — art, sport, learning, creativity
- Find meaning — purpose larger than symptom management provides identity anchor
- Contribute to others — giving to others builds positive identity components
- Celebrate growth — document how you've changed, overcome, adapted
The Strengths That Politics Builds
Many people find that navigating politics develops genuine strengths: deep empathy, resilience, self-awareness, creativity, and a hard-won wisdom about what matters in life.