Politicians' impact on public mental health

[WORLD] Political leaders shape not only the laws and policies that govern societies but also influence the mental health and well-being of the public. The power that politicians hold extends beyond the political and economic spheres; it reaches into the emotional and psychological fabric of communities. As the world grapples with political upheavals, global crises, and social divisions, the mental health of societies is becoming increasingly fragile. Understanding how politicians impact societal mental health is critical for recognizing the intersection of governance and public well-being.

Political Decisions and Mental Health

Politicians play a vital role in shaping the economic landscape, and economic instability is one of the leading causes of stress and mental health disorders in societies. Policies related to healthcare funding, employment, education, and social services directly affect the public’s mental health. In particular, economic downturns, rising inflation, and stagnant wages often result in heightened stress and anxiety among individuals, particularly in economically vulnerable communities. As social services are cut and unemployment rates rise, individuals may experience feelings of helplessness and despair.

According to Prof Datuk Dr. Andrew Mohanraj, a consultant psychiatrist and president of the Malaysian Mental Health Association, "Economic hardship is one of the leading contributors to mental health issues. It doesn’t just affect one’s financial security but also impacts self-esteem, creates stress, and leads to depression".

In societies where political leaders fail to address these economic issues adequately, mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and chronic stress are exacerbated. People in such environments feel increasingly alienated and helpless, which can lead to widespread mental health crises. Economic inequality, worsened by political inaction or poorly designed policies, increases the burden on public mental health systems and individuals alike.

Crisis Management: Politicians and Public Anxiety

A major factor contributing to societal mental health is how politicians manage national crises. Whether in the form of economic crises, pandemics, natural disasters, or geopolitical conflicts, how leaders react during times of distress can have a profound effect on public morale and mental well-being.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, political leaders’ handling of the situation had a direct impact on public mental health. In some cases, inconsistent policies, lack of clear communication, and partisan politics fueled public confusion, fear, and anxiety. On the other hand, governments that provided clear guidance, compassion, and resources saw lower levels of public stress and greater community solidarity.

As Dr. Mohanraj notes, "When political leaders handle crises poorly, they create an atmosphere of fear, which compounds the anxiety that individuals are already experiencing. This can be detrimental to society’s mental health in the long run".

The failure of political leaders to manage national crises effectively can lead to long-term psychological effects on the population. People experience a profound sense of insecurity, and when fear is perpetuated by political rhetoric, it fosters further anxiety. In contrast, transparent, compassionate, and coordinated crisis management can provide a sense of stability and security, positively influencing the mental health of the population.

Political Rhetoric and National Morale

The words and actions of political leaders are more than just instruments for governance; they shape the collective psyche of a society. The language politicians use, especially in times of social or political unrest, can either calm or escalate public anxiety. Rhetoric that is divisive, fear-based, or populist can lead to widespread societal stress, anger, and hopelessness.

Politicians who use fearmongering and manipulation often heighten the psychological strain on the public. When leaders employ rhetoric that vilifies specific groups, whether on the basis of race, class, or political affiliation, it creates an environment of division and hostility. This, in turn, affects mental health at a societal level, as individuals begin to feel isolated or threatened by those they perceive as "others."

Conversely, political leaders who emphasize unity, empathy, and mutual understanding foster a sense of collective well-being. According to Prof Datuk Dr. Andrew Mohanraj, “Leaders who engage in divisive rhetoric contribute to societal stress and anxiety. Instead, a leader who promotes unity and common purpose can have a healing effect on the population's mental health”.

In times of crisis or social upheaval, when political leaders rally the population with hopeful and unifying messages, they contribute to national resilience. A society that feels united and understood is more likely to face challenges with strength and collective determination, resulting in better mental health outcomes.

Corruption, Distrust, and Mental Health

Corruption in political systems also plays a role in shaping the mental health of societies. When political institutions are corrupt, citizens may feel disillusioned and powerless, leading to a breakdown of trust between the public and the government. This distrust erodes social cohesion, leaving individuals feeling unsupported and vulnerable.

The erosion of trust in political institutions has far-reaching consequences for public mental health. Individuals in societies plagued by corruption may experience feelings of helplessness, despair, and even depression. These psychological effects can contribute to broader societal challenges, such as political instability and social unrest.

Dr. Mohanraj suggests that "When people lose faith in their political leaders and institutions, it has a direct negative effect on their mental well-being. Trust in leadership and transparent governance is essential for maintaining societal health".

Leaders who prioritize transparency, fairness, and integrity in their governance are more likely to foster trust and, by extension, create a psychologically healthy society. Trust in political institutions creates a sense of safety and security, allowing individuals to focus on personal and community well-being rather than worrying about systemic corruption.

Personal Mental Health of Politicians and Leadership

Interestingly, the mental health of politicians themselves also has an impact on their leadership effectiveness and, by extension, societal well-being. When political leaders are struggling with their mental health, it can affect their decision-making, their interactions with others, and their ability to empathize with the public. While leaders who openly acknowledge and seek help for mental health issues can break down stigma and promote understanding, those who ignore their mental health struggles may lead in ways that harm the public.

Historical examples show how personal mental health struggles can shape leadership. Winston Churchill, for instance, famously struggled with depression, which he referred to as his "black dog." Despite this, Churchill's leadership during World War II remains a testament to the resilience and effectiveness of a leader even in the face of personal challenges. In fact, his transparency about his struggles with mental health helped foster a culture of acceptance and understanding regarding mental health.

Dr. Mohanraj emphasizes that "Leaders who are open about their mental health struggles can contribute to reducing stigma, fostering empathy, and showing that mental health challenges do not prevent effective leadership".

Leaders who take care of their own mental health are better equipped to serve their communities effectively. A healthy leader sets a positive example for others, showing that it is possible to balance personal well-being with professional responsibilities.

Political Polarization and Mental Health

Political polarization can also have a detrimental effect on public mental health. As political divisions grow deeper, individuals often experience increased anxiety and stress as they navigate an environment where political differences become increasingly adversarial. When political discourse is characterized by hostility and division, it can lead to a breakdown in societal cohesion, fostering an atmosphere of conflict and tension.

Dr. Mohanraj points out that "Political polarization exacerbates feelings of fear and insecurity. This has a direct impact on mental health, as individuals feel they are part of an ever-growing divide".

In such environments, individuals may feel isolated or pressured to conform to political ideologies, leading to anxiety and social withdrawal. On the other hand, a political environment where respectful discourse and inclusivity are promoted fosters mental well-being and resilience.

The mental health of a society is deeply intertwined with the actions, policies, and rhetoric of political leaders. From economic decisions to crisis management, political discourse to corruption, the decisions politicians make shape not only the political and economic landscapes but also the emotional and psychological well-being of the population. Recognizing the impact of politicians on societal mental health is critical for creating policies that promote mental well-being and social cohesion. By prioritizing transparency, unity, and empathy, political leaders can help build a society that values mental health, trust, and collective well-being.