Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert has observed a significant trend in his practice, reporting that 75% of his patients harbor a deep-seated animosity towards former President Donald Trump, often exhibiting a “hyper fixation” on him. This fixation, according to Alpert, manifests in various ways, including sleep disturbances and feelings of trauma triggered by encountering Trump’s image or mentions in the news and online. One patient even expressed an inability to fully enjoy a vacation due to these triggers.
Alpert characterizes this phenomenon as a “profound pathology,” going so far as to suggest it may be the defining pathology of our time. While it is important to note that this observation is based on Alpert’s specific patient population and may not be representative of the broader population, it aligns with reports on the heightened political polarization and associated stress observed in recent years. Research indicates that political divisions can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and even symptoms of depression in some individuals.