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hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 01:19 PM 16 hrs ago

You just don't realize the stress until you can't deny it.

By all accounts, I'm a pretty gutsy broad. I'm in my late sixties. I usually say what I mean and I'm not afraid of controversy. I took down two great big tree limbs that were about to fall from recent storms with my chainsaw this past week.

I do my own home maintenance as much as possible. I'm single with an older relative living with me who requires some care, but it's manageable.

I remember one time when Trump was President during his first term. I was unloading the dishwasher, and out of the blue everything just hit me. I think I posted about that here. I started crying and had to sit down for a few minutes. It wasn't the dishwasher. It was all of the stress of HIS crap coupled with all of the usual, normal stress that we all have in our daily lives. I had just reached my limit.

This just happened to me again earlier today. I reached a limit. I have an overhead a/c filter and it's difficult to replace it. The vent cover is a bit testy when you are trying to put it back up.

The filter needed to be changed and I tried doing it and it wouldn't fit back in. I lost it. Bawled by eyes out for ten minutes. Again, it wasn't JUST the a/c filter. It's everything. All at once. All of the stress of our usual lives PLUS all of the worry, uncertainty and dread that goes along with Trump's second term.

I cried for a bit. Sat down for a minute and had a glass of dr. pepper. Then I by god got my ass back up and put the damn a/c filter in and got the vent cover on.

Fuck that sonofabitch to the end of eternity. As long as there is breath in this body, I will continue to get my ass back up and fight him. I hate him and I hate all of the assholes in this country who allowed this to happen and continue to do nothing.

I am woman. Hear my fat ass roar this morning!!!!!

93 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
You just don't realize the stress until you can't deny it. (Original Post) hamsterjill 16 hrs ago OP
Am with you, hamsterjill UpInArms 16 hrs ago #1
Damn straight! hamsterjill 16 hrs ago #7
You speak for me. flashman13 15 hrs ago #12
Oh yeah! Same vintage, similar story. I hear you. Easterncedar 16 hrs ago #2
Our vintage IS fierce!!!! hamsterjill 16 hrs ago #8
I get you. blogslug 16 hrs ago #3
I know. hamsterjill 15 hrs ago #9
OMG, I know exactly what you mean! ShazzieB 13 hrs ago #55
Agreed. hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #60
I'm way past... 2naSalit 16 hrs ago #4
You hang in there!!!! hamsterjill 16 hrs ago #6
Moving away... 2naSalit 15 hrs ago #11
Preach it,sistah! BattleRow 14 hrs ago #42
Indeed... 2naSalit 13 hrs ago #59
It is. hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #61
Like Faux pas 16 hrs ago #5
Appreciate those vibes very much!!! hamsterjill 15 hrs ago #10
Yep Faux pas 15 hrs ago #14
Ok, now i have to put my Helen Reddy cd on. Delmette2.0 14 hrs ago #44
That song forged a generation of us!!!!! hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #62
For sure Faux pas 7 hrs ago #88
K&R orangecrush 15 hrs ago #13
Word irisblue 15 hrs ago #15
I hear you! Loud and clear! Silver Gaia 15 hrs ago #16
We know how to fight. hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #63
Exactly! Silver Gaia 3 hrs ago #92
Right there with you, hamsterjill! HeartsCanHope 15 hrs ago #17
Right here with you hamsterjill gademocrat7 15 hrs ago #18
I love the quote attributed to Helen Keller, "Life is either a dangerous adventure...or it is FailureToCommunicate 15 hrs ago #19
I think your strategy is a good one! hamsterjill 15 hrs ago #21
Dr Pepper + champagne ? Haven't tried it, but it might be good... FailureToCommunicate 14 hrs ago #43
Gotta try this!!!! hamsterjill 8 hrs ago #78
Post removed Post removed 13 hrs ago #56
I'm a never Trumper from day 1 and that's a hill I'll be proud to die on if it ever comes to that Ponietz 15 hrs ago #20
Damn straight! hamsterjill 15 hrs ago #22
I moved to Texas as a high school freshman and ran away from home my junior year Ponietz 14 hrs ago #36
Texas wasn't always a bunch of idiots. hamsterjill 14 hrs ago #38
Sending ❤️❤️❤️ ultralite001 15 hrs ago #23
When the going gets tough... hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #64
Time for us to rise up... ultralite001 11 hrs ago #70
We're gonna need a catchy acronym... ultralite001 11 hrs ago #71
It Is Absolutely Overwhelming! BBbats 15 hrs ago #24
totally hear you Kali 15 hrs ago #25
I hear you hamsterjill, and you are not alone. Keep on keeping on! c-rational 14 hrs ago #26
Good job otchmoson 14 hrs ago #27
Sounds like a perfect rallying cry to me... littlemissmartypants 14 hrs ago #28
Great post, Hamsterjill! nuxvomica 14 hrs ago #29
Speak!! angrychair 14 hrs ago #30
I know! hamsterjill 14 hrs ago #41
We are not alone, there are reports of a huge spike in stress and anxiety..... OGBuzz 14 hrs ago #31
My stress level keeps rising and it is young_at_heart 14 hrs ago #39
It's because you are wise. hamsterjill 8 hrs ago #80
The Trump voters must no be forgotten. hamsterjill 8 hrs ago #79
That's the way to do it! kooth 14 hrs ago #32
Thank you so much for this post! hamsterjill 8 hrs ago #81
hey girl Skittles 14 hrs ago #33
Skittles!!!!! hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #65
This VERRRRRRY Cranky Crone is sending you all positive vibes. niyad 14 hrs ago #34
Thanks. hamsterjill 12 hrs ago #66
Know exactly how you feel lady! Hey Joe 14 hrs ago #35
Im pretty much the same way. Figarosmom 14 hrs ago #37
Researchers have established that crying releases oxytocin and endogenous opioids, also known as endorphins. Donkees 14 hrs ago #40
Thank you for sharing. You're story is relatable and inspiring Ilikepurple 14 hrs ago #45
Amen! Fantastic post. LoisB 14 hrs ago #46
Righteous rant! calimary 14 hrs ago #47
Oh lawdy, hj, can I relate. EuterpeThelo 13 hrs ago #48
Take comfort in the knowledge there are 10's of millions of us Buddyzbuddy 13 hrs ago #49
Roar on LOUDER!!! Moostache 13 hrs ago #50
Yep! DownriverDem 13 hrs ago #51
I hear you! I am living a parallel experience. yellow dahlia 13 hrs ago #52
Dr. Pepper is more qualified to lead HHS than Trump's pick. blm 13 hrs ago #53
I hear you. MLAA 13 hrs ago #54
I'm with you, Jill! SheltieLover 13 hrs ago #57
A great OP malaise 13 hrs ago #58
Same here stillspkg 12 hrs ago #67
Feel the same Tree Lady 12 hrs ago #68
With you Wild blueberry 11 hrs ago #69
I love you! bluescribbler 10 hrs ago #72
And we love all of the men who "get" it hamsterjill 10 hrs ago #73
You are smart samplegirl 9 hrs ago #74
Reaching our limit KT2000 9 hrs ago #75
Great story and post Traildogbob 9 hrs ago #76
Covid lockdown did it for me. ananda 8 hrs ago #77
Hang in there, Jill.... slightlv 8 hrs ago #82
I can sense the strength in your post. hamsterjill 7 hrs ago #84
Don't....I hear yah. sprinkleeninow 8 hrs ago #83
And peace be unto you, as well. hamsterjill 7 hrs ago #89
Roar. mr715 7 hrs ago #85
Wish I could rec 1M+ happy feet 7 hrs ago #86
Count me there, sister! Trueblue Texan 7 hrs ago #87
Here's the thing - I don't know a lot, but I know right from wrong. Initech 5 hrs ago #90
I get ya chuck-o-duck 4 hrs ago #91
I totally understand! Last week one night I was asleep and the hallway smoke alarm Ziggysmom 2 hrs ago #93

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
7. Damn straight!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:03 PM
16 hrs ago

We keep fighting and we are gonna make it through this. That bastard is gonna rue the day he messed with those of us who are still sane!

Easterncedar

(6,121 posts)
2. Oh yeah! Same vintage, similar story. I hear you.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 01:36 PM
16 hrs ago

I was taking care of family who were heading to the exit through the first years of the mango menace up to the beginning of the pandemic. Rough in spots, but oh I miss them. This time I am on my own and can scream without scaring anyone. I do.

And I gather with good folks and protest 3 days a week. It makes us all feel better to be together.

Like here on DU. Sending fierceness!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
8. Our vintage IS fierce!!!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:04 PM
16 hrs ago

We've had to fight before - for rights, for equality, for sanity. And we know HOW to do it.

Damn straight! Fierceness!!!!!

blogslug

(39,146 posts)
3. I get you.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 01:44 PM
16 hrs ago

It's why I don't post so much here lately. I still love this place. I keep a tab open to DU 24/7, but I just don't know what to say anymore except aaaagggghhh!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
9. I know.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:05 PM
15 hrs ago

I sit here at my keyboard sometimes with my mouth hanging open because just when I think he's done everything he can to surprise me, the asshole does something else.

But we will be standing long after he isn't! Hang in there!!!

ShazzieB

(22,505 posts)
55. OMG, I know exactly what you mean!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:37 PM
13 hrs ago

I am continually jsurprised by him, and it's exhausting. I'm never surprised to hear he's done something awful (again), but the specific awful things he decides to do constantly take me by surprise. I've given up trying to predict anything, because my brain isn't warped and twisted enough to anticipate what his warped and twisted brain might come up with, and every new piece of bad news is like a sucker punch.

My response has been to block out as much of it as I can, but it's getting harder and harder.






hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
60. Agreed.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:05 PM
12 hrs ago

Some of my own "flabbergast" comes from the fact that no one calls him on his absolutely ABSURD comments. We just need one media person to stand up and I'm convinced that others would follow. One needs to ask and when he tears into that person, the others need to stand behind that person, ask the same questions, turn their fucking backs if necessary.

But someone needs to let him know that we don't all buy his lies and crap!

2naSalit

(102,167 posts)
4. I'm way past...
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 01:54 PM
16 hrs ago

The part where I can lose it and sit down and cry, that was during 1.0. Now, I sit in silence and let my mind go into 'safe mode' where I just do nothing for a spell. Unfortunately, that spell can go for a couple hours before I am able to address anything beyond being still. When I moved last year, I left my counseling behind, haven't felt the need to seek anyone out yet, but that might change by the end of the year. If I can find a HC provider that is. So far, I'm managing.

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
6. You hang in there!!!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:02 PM
16 hrs ago

That's the best revenge. Do what you need to do to take care of yourself. This isn't a race to see who can make it to the end first.

But it IS a race to see who can make it (at all) to the end. You stay with us! We all stick together and we will be at the finish line together!!!

Fuck Trump!

2naSalit

(102,167 posts)
11. Moving away...
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:10 PM
15 hrs ago

From where I was, that was one of my acts of defiance and I feel much better where I am now.

My big diversion is to find another box of stuff to empty out and filter through. When I run out of those I have plenty of artsy fartsy shit to do so I can keep occupied and only take in the outer bullshit as I can handle it.

I'm okay most of the time and I am in a 'legal' state so I have access to mind altering refreshments!

BattleRow

(2,313 posts)
42. Preach it,sistah!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:41 PM
14 hrs ago

I suspect its a feature and not a bug to inundate us with shock and awe on a daily basis to desensitize us to the increasingly illegal and horrific behaviors and misadventures.
Isnt it called psychologically softening up ?

Well,Ive found that listening to binauralbeats on youtube help.Many varieties are avaiable as an antidote to smooth out the jangled nerves and anxiety.

2naSalit

(102,167 posts)
59. Indeed...
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:00 PM
13 hrs ago

It's a feature. Anyone who read "The Shock Doctrine" will recognize these tactics.

Faux pas

(16,315 posts)
5. Like
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:02 PM
16 hrs ago

the saying goes hamsterjill, when you're going through hell, just keep going! Sending you extra roaring woman vibes!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
10. Appreciate those vibes very much!!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:06 PM
15 hrs ago

We are gonna continue to fight and kick ass every chance we get!!!!

Delmette2.0

(4,496 posts)
44. Ok, now i have to put my Helen Reddy cd on.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:47 PM
14 hrs ago

I am strong.
I am invincible.
I am woman.

We can bend, but never break.

Hear us roar!!!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
62. That song forged a generation of us!!!!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:08 PM
12 hrs ago

I play it often, and I raised a daughter to appreciate it, too!!!

irisblue

(37,370 posts)
15. Word
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:30 PM
15 hrs ago

"Fuck that sonofabitch to the end of eternity. As long as there is breath in this body, I will continue to get my ass back up and fight him. I hate him and I hate all of the assholes in this country who allowed this to happen and continue to do nothing."

Silver Gaia

(5,342 posts)
16. I hear you! Loud and clear!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:38 PM
15 hrs ago

I am in ny early 70s and am also fierce in the same ways. I stand and roar with you, my fist raised in defiance. Noooooo!!!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
63. We know how to fight.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:09 PM
12 hrs ago

It's not like we haven't had to do it before, right?

Thanks for ferocity!!!!

HeartsCanHope

(1,643 posts)
17. Right there with you, hamsterjill!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:43 PM
15 hrs ago

You tell me where and when, and I will have your six! Trumpenstein is NOT going to win. And the enablers, they are going down, too.

We WILL win in November, no matter what they throw at us!

FailureToCommunicate

(14,595 posts)
19. I love the quote attributed to Helen Keller, "Life is either a dangerous adventure...or it is
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:52 PM
15 hrs ago

nothing." Whether or not she said it, it always helps me think... that maybe we weren't born to have, or to expect, an easy life. That there is always danger and stress in the human condition.

And, growing up as many of us did, under the shadow of nuclear annihilation, the Vietnam War, Civil Rights unrest...with parents that had suffered through the Depression, AND Second World War...well, peaceful stress-free times seemed fleeting and rare.

Politically, for every Kennedy, or Johnson, or Carter, or Clinton, Obama, or Clinton, or Biden we got elected, there would be a Nixon, or Ford, or Reagan, or Bush, or Bush, or Trump, or Trump to ruin and tear down each time what the Democrats had rebuilt. Bloody depressing!

So, I'm right with you when you say the simplest frustration sometimes unlocks the floodgates of pent up rage and dread.

I hope that MLK was correct to hope that the universe "bends towards justice". I want to be around when Trump and all his enablers get brought to account for their blowing up of our precious democracy.

I want to still be around. So my plan is simple: stay healthy, limit my mass media news intake, keep friends close, bear witness at protests...AND keep several bottles of Korbel (US) Champagne chilled for the jubilant day of reckoning I hope comes soon!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
21. I think your strategy is a good one!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:57 PM
15 hrs ago

I may need to up my dr. pepper to something more celebratory when that time arrives!!!! LOL And that time WILL arrive.

Response to FailureToCommunicate (Reply #19)

Ponietz

(4,282 posts)
20. I'm a never Trumper from day 1 and that's a hill I'll be proud to die on if it ever comes to that
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:56 PM
15 hrs ago

I have honor, integrity, self-respect, virtue and a clear conscience. They can eat shit and go to hell.

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
22. Damn straight!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 02:59 PM
15 hrs ago

I knew what he was from day 1 and screamed at the top of my mountain of friends and acquaintances. I live in Texas around a bunch of MAGA and they are just plain stupid. They didn't want to hear anything bad about him. Now, many of them are seeing his effects first hand - and I don't have sympathy.

They can all eat shit.

Ponietz

(4,282 posts)
36. I moved to Texas as a high school freshman and ran away from home my junior year
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:24 PM
14 hrs ago

I hated living there (Dallas area) so much. Materialism, racism, classism, with a double-dollop of ego and a hallelujah chorus. I’ve had a good life since that decision. One cannot love both God and mammon. End of story.

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
38. Texas wasn't always a bunch of idiots.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:33 PM
14 hrs ago

I'm old enough to remember "the good ole days" when Texas was blue, and it was a different place in my opinion. Now, you're right in that Dallas has always been about materialism, etc. No argument from me about that area.

But there used to be good in the State and honor and integrity actually USED to be important. Those days are long gone, and I would have escaped long ago had I not family ties, etc. that have kept me here.

It started in the eighties when a bunch of wealthy idiots decided to move to Texas and take over. There was business opportunity and they were greedy and star struck. Handshakes no longer meant anything. Sue and plunder and get all you can became the name of the game. Then the local rich people saw how that behavior enhanced the outsiders, and hell, they threw what was left of any integrity and honor that they might have had out the window to be able to compete. The crazy evangelicals (and I am always forthright about the fact that *I* am a Christian; just not one of those kinds!) took root and here we are.

For the first time in a long time, I see Texas progressing to blue again. Make no mistake, I'm no fool and know we still have a long way to go and a lot of work still, but it's moving that direction at least. If we ever make it, I will be dancing naked in the streets!!!



hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
64. When the going gets tough...
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:11 PM
12 hrs ago

There are a helluva lot of us gutsy broads, right? We've been there before and we know how to take care of business!!!!

BBbats

(304 posts)
24. It Is Absolutely Overwhelming!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:00 PM
15 hrs ago

Everyday we wake up & wonder "What fresh Hell is coming next?"
Will we lose our Medical coverage?
Will we lose our Social Security benefits?
Will we lose our SNAP?
Will we lose our voting rights?
Will we lose our Civil rights?
Whatever minimal safety nets we have are being targeted for elimination while we are being told that they are things we cannot afford or deserve. They are Hell bent on taking them away from us.

Kali

(56,813 posts)
25. totally hear you
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:03 PM
15 hrs ago

fellow traveler in many respects. cooking today for a branding crew of which I am a part - yay I get twice as much work! may have a brief melt down at some point this weekend.

but I will get back to work after I go find whatever tool I just flung at the sun.

littlemissmartypants

(32,863 posts)
28. Sounds like a perfect rallying cry to me...
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:05 PM
14 hrs ago
"Fuck that sonofabitch to the end of eternity. As long as there is breath in this body, I will continue to get my ass back up and fight him. I hate him and I hate all of the assholes in this country who allowed this to happen and continue to do nothing."


nuxvomica

(14,046 posts)
29. Great post, Hamsterjill!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:06 PM
14 hrs ago

This is an issue many of us face and I think your approach is pretty healthy. When it becomes too much, sit down and have a good cry, but then do something active. We need to accept our feelings but we also need to take action, even if it's just getting that damn filter replaced. And keep the perspective that TSF is facing a lot of resistance from every possible direction, some of which, like the protesters in Minneapolis and elsewhere, is a glory to behold. We are not alone.

angrychair

(12,193 posts)
30. Speak!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:09 PM
14 hrs ago

You are the good people HJ and I'll share one of my favorite quotes to share:

"Illegitimi non carborundum"

Or another I love lately

"Never give up. Never surrender."

One is from a series. One is from a movie. If you know, you know

OGBuzz

(249 posts)
31. We are not alone, there are reports of a huge spike in stress and anxiety.....
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:10 PM
14 hrs ago

related to the Trump administration. It was the same during his first term and yet the bastard still got elected for a second attempt to destroy everything. There is something seriously wrong with the 77 million that voted for this when the writing was on the wall.

young_at_heart

(4,033 posts)
39. My stress level keeps rising and it is
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:33 PM
14 hrs ago

literally making me sick. I'm going on 87 and things seem to bother me much more than when I was young!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
80. It's because you are wise.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 09:39 PM
8 hrs ago

Anyone NOT bothered by Trump has to be some unfeeling nutcase. None of us here qualify as that. I hear your lament from so many people, and obviously *I* feel that way.

Please take care of yourself and do what you need to do to stay healthy and manage the stress. Easier said than done, I know. But we have to try to keep living (not simply existing, but actually LIVING) through these perilous times.

Wishing you all the very best.

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
79. The Trump voters must no be forgotten.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 09:34 PM
8 hrs ago

Yes, we want them to come over to our side, and yes, we welcome those who have come to their senses. But we must never forget what they did to the rest of us.

I knew when he was "re-elected" that it was going to be another miserable time. Anyone with ANY sense would feel the same way. So no wonder there is a huge spike in stress and anxiety. It's certainly true because we all feel it!

Welcome to DU!

kooth

(237 posts)
32. That's the way to do it!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:13 PM
14 hrs ago

Your post is an inspiration! We all get overwhelmed and sometimes we need a good cry. I'm a guy and I cry, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I know it helps. Thanks for your post, and your gumption! You Rock!

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
81. Thank you so much for this post!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 09:44 PM
8 hrs ago

I think men who can admit to being human (i.e., we all cry!!!) are the strongest of their kind. There is nothing wrong with having emotion and being able to show it and let it out.

My father was a literal cowboy. I don't mean someone who dresses up in jeans and boots and pretends. I mean a real COWBOY! He trained horses, ran cattle, you name it - the whole nine yards. He's been gone for many years, but I saw him cry on several occasions. It did not diminish the strength he had. It showed character.

Welcome to DU!



Skittles

(171,249 posts)
33. hey girl
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:15 PM
14 hrs ago

it's GREAT that you tackle stuff like that yourself - it's a huge pet peeve of mine when seniors let others take over tasks they can easily learn how to do themselves - not only does it help to keep mind and body active, it helps to dispel stereotypes that lead to ageism in the workforce

As for Trump, yeah, it's a clusterfuck and I find myself so angry not just at Trump voters but anyone who voted third party or didn't even bother to vote - in my mind they utterly DISGRACED America. And don't even get me started on the Trump humping GOP, WTF

Well we are in this together; we WILL get through it. And despite all the bad stuff goin on, we decent folk DO outnumber those assholes, WE DO. We WILL prevail.

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
65. Skittles!!!!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:15 PM
12 hrs ago

My girl! Damn straight! I try to do as much as I possibly can on my own. For the very reasons that you mention. As long as I can, I intend to keep living that way. I have a good supply of tools and some experience. If I can't do something, I typically walk away for a bit, think about it, and come back and try again. I can't tell you HOW MANY times that has served me well.

I feel the same way about the ones who voted third party. I think they just wimped out. It was a choice that they could easily make and tell their friends as if they weren't rocking any boats. Well, I want the boats rocked!!!!

We will prevail. We just gotta hang on and hang tough. At some point, it's going to become crystal clear that there are more of US than there are of THEM.



hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
66. Thanks.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:16 PM
12 hrs ago

I know you and I are on the same page about this.

There are a lot of us tough ole crones!!!! We've been through shit tougher than this before.

Hey Joe

(566 posts)
35. Know exactly how you feel lady!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:21 PM
14 hrs ago

It’s gotten me down lately too and I just have to step back from here and other news.
I’m in my mid sixties and have been paying attention since my teens, but never have I seen this country in such a stupid state.
The sadistic fuckwit and his entire cabal of rabid supporters may just be the death of us.
Hope not

Figarosmom

(11,543 posts)
37. Im pretty much the same way.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:27 PM
14 hrs ago

Only instead of crying I find myself completely checked out in kinda a trance, just staring.

That's why I post so many frivolous cat and dog shorts in the longe.

Donkees

(33,644 posts)
40. Researchers have established that crying releases oxytocin and endogenous opioids, also known as endorphins.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:34 PM
14 hrs ago
... emotional tears (which flush stress hormones and other toxins out of our system), that potentially offers the most health benefits. Researchers have established that crying releases oxytocin and endogenous opioids, also known as endorphins. These feel-good chemicals help ease both physical and emotional pain.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/is-crying-good-for-you-2021030122020

Ilikepurple

(618 posts)
45. Thank you for sharing. You're story is relatable and inspiring
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 03:48 PM
14 hrs ago

I’m sure many of us feel the way you do, at least on occasion. For me, it’s almost a constant hum in the background even though I’m personally somewhat insulated from the direct effects of this administration’s words and actions. I also care for a relative who is recently disabled. I totally feel that moment when a simple task gets overwhelming and the pent up frustrations rise up. I almost had that moment yesterday with some very dark cupcake brownie batter that seemed to spread on more things I the kitchen the more I tried to clean a spill on the cupcake pan up. I have mainly used this site as a news aggregator and to hear ideas in motion, but stories like yours provide the human connection that I sometimes miss.

calimary

(89,816 posts)
47. Righteous rant!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:00 PM
14 hrs ago

Most of the time, we can take it, or at least endure it and/or find a work-around. But sometimes it doesn’t cooperate. Sometimes it all just seems to go all akimbo, or straight to Hell, whichever comes first.

EuterpeThelo

(315 posts)
48. Oh lawdy, hj, can I relate.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:06 PM
13 hrs ago

The last six years have brought me SO much pain and grief on a personal level that I can't even begin to account for all of it (and I know I'm far from alone there). But the added stress and anxiety caused by the never-ending firehose of just pure SHIT aimed at us every day from every angle is sometimes just overwhelming.

I've read "The Shock Doctrine." I *know* on an intellectual level that this is being done by design to flood our defense mechanisms. Doesn't make it any easier when something so trivial (like the filters of which you wrote) becomes the straw that breaks the camel's back for that day.

The worst part (and again, I know I'm not alone) is how many DECADES I have been standing in the street screaming with signs warning that all of this was coming, and hardly anybody even bothered to look up, it seemed.

Buddyzbuddy

(2,477 posts)
49. Take comfort in the knowledge there are 10's of millions of us
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:14 PM
13 hrs ago

in the same boat feeling that same overwhelming stress and emotion. Lucky for all of us, we have DU to relieve some of that pressure. You are not alone.
Stay strong and be well, hamsterjill.

"Lean on Me"-Bill Withers, comes to mind.
"Sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow"

Moostache

(11,143 posts)
50. Roar on LOUDER!!!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:17 PM
13 hrs ago

I know EXACTLY what you're saying! Rage against the dying of the light!!!

DownriverDem

(7,007 posts)
51. Yep!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:22 PM
13 hrs ago

I'm right there with you. I must admit that I am full of anxiety and sometimes scared. We have had no day of peace since from him. I fight the good fight everyday.

yellow dahlia

(5,646 posts)
52. I hear you! I am living a parallel experience.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:23 PM
13 hrs ago

Right down to the - hear my late sixties fat ass roar.

MLAA

(19,723 posts)
54. I hear you.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:30 PM
13 hrs ago

I am so with you. I made a playlist I called Divas, here are three of the songs that pick me up when I feel like you just described.





malaise

(295,381 posts)
58. A great OP
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 04:55 PM
13 hrs ago

As long as there is breath in this body, I will continue to get my ass back up and fight him.

Rec

Tree Lady

(13,241 posts)
68. Feel the same
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 05:37 PM
12 hrs ago

Been a month since my hip surgery and since it was from fracture takes longer to heal. But some days I sit in the shower chair and just cry because of the pleasure of the hot water. I am so desparate to feel pleasure in my life. All the things I did to calm me from trumps shit are gone for now. I cant take a bath, go hiking, go dancing, go to a pub or out to eat, go to my fun senior classes or gym or do yoga.

So when I feel the hot water on my body I cry every time because of the pleasure.

Like you I refuse to give in to pity party and enjoyed the sun on my face as I did my 20 min walk listening to a audio book a thriller.

Wild blueberry

(8,254 posts)
69. With you
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 06:25 PM
11 hrs ago

Old broad who does all her home maintenance (except snowplowing my quarter-mile road). Understand the stress and frustration and fury.
Have decided to stay and fight to my last breath. Have champagne chilling for That Day. Send a prayer to Mrs Karma every day.
Thank you for a superb post!
For all of us -- we stand together. Our superpower.

bluescribbler

(2,503 posts)
72. I love you!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 07:19 PM
10 hrs ago

I love you and all the feisty woman who get back up and fight. This old man is about to do the same.

samplegirl

(13,913 posts)
74. You are smart
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 08:26 PM
9 hrs ago

Strong and amazing.
You have friends who feel your anxiety!
I'm one of them!

KT2000

(22,114 posts)
75. Reaching our limit
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 08:32 PM
9 hrs ago

also comes out when people encroach on us. Rude behavior, which has become more normal, is not just about intolerable. My ver sweet neighbor had a blowout with a woman who parked her car in the do it yourself car wash while she went next door to do her laundry. Cars were lined up behind her. She was saving her space even though the laundry had empty spaces.
I almost made an issue of an old man using the last treadmill to hang his coat while he used another one. He was even going over his allotted time limit. I didn't say anything because I realized my reaction was out of the ordinary.

trump has encroached on our lives, and mental well-being and some of us are running out of room.

Traildogbob

(12,979 posts)
76. Great story and post
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 08:46 PM
9 hrs ago

Tough lady for damn sure . And I especially loved reading all these posts from real fighters. Sure gives me hope and faith there are lots of us.
We are all sick of the hate he puts in us for them all.
More post like this to feed our fight is needed.
Keep Up the fighting for our sanity, and getting back up, we sure gonna get kicked down many times to come.

ananda

(34,982 posts)
77. Covid lockdown did it for me.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 09:06 PM
8 hrs ago

I cried just about every day for six months.

Once the vaccines came out, it got better.

slightlv

(7,753 posts)
82. Hang in there, Jill....
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 09:59 PM
8 hrs ago

I say this, even tho I'm at the end of my rope, too. Frustration and feelings of impotence rage inside me. It's so overwhelming and always there, I have to fight myself hard not to take it out on other people. And I find myself finding agreement with lines in shows I'm watching... like Picard saying the dreams are lovely, but he's beginning to resent waking up. That's EXACTLY where I am now. Oh, it's not just trump and the shitshow that's america right now... like you said, it's all that on top of the everyday stuff... and especially now that the everyday stuff includes my husband... my best friend... being lost to me due to dementia. Some days, I have no idea how I'll get through to the escape of night and sleep.

But, as hard as stuff is right now (including a court date for hubby on the 26th), I am planning on being in KcK for the No Kings II march... and I'll be bringing a bunch of signs I printed up, for anyone to use who couldn't make one. If I'm lucky, my friends will be with me this time, too. We had so much fun together at the last march. It seems, that's what hope looks like for me these days.

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
84. I can sense the strength in your post.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 10:09 PM
7 hrs ago

I'm definitely a Picard fan, and so many of his lines were simply profound. I love the interview with Patrick Stewart where he talks about his mother having been abused by his father when he was growing up. When she desperately called the authorities, they would always ask her "why, what did you do, Mrs. Stewart"? The delivery of his understanding of that charge to his mother is monumental.

I am very sorry about your best friend being lost to you. I think it's amazing when someone sees their spouse as their best friend. Shouldn't that always be the case? For most, it isn't. For some lucky ones, it is the truth. So, your loss must be immense, and I feel for you.

Thank you for planning to attend the No Kings II March. I hope you can have a day with your friends that is filled with purpose and love and share fun.

Remember to take care of yourself through all of this.

sprinkleeninow

(22,304 posts)
83. Don't....I hear yah.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 10:03 PM
8 hrs ago

The least little miniscule thing sets me off. It's a daily pile-on. I used to be quite a strong being. The garbage chips away at my strength, psyche, entire body. It'll come over me like a wave. I don't get angry, I wail, brought to tears sobbing. Then I have to exert control. Feels like a coronary coming on.

Peace be unto you. 🫶

hamsterjill

(17,515 posts)
89. And peace be unto you, as well.
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 10:41 PM
7 hrs ago

We have to let the steam out. Each in our own way, but we need to do that. Then, as you say, we exert control and remember who we are and what we are capable of.

Wishing you all the very best...

Trueblue Texan

(4,399 posts)
87. Count me there, sister!
Fri Mar 13, 2026, 10:24 PM
7 hrs ago

I could relate to every single word. But we are strong. We keep getting back up and in the fight to defend our nation and our way of life.

Initech

(108,548 posts)
90. Here's the thing - I don't know a lot, but I know right from wrong.
Sat Mar 14, 2026, 12:14 AM
5 hrs ago

Donald Trump is wrong. Fox News is wrong. Elon Musk is wrong. David Ellison is wrong. Jeff Bezos is wrong. Steve Bannon is wrong. Mark Zuckerberg is wrong. Benjamin Netanyahu is wrong. Vladimir Putin is wrong. But you know what? You keep fighting for what is right. Putting an end to this fascist shit show for good and putting these sick, psychotic fucks in prison where they belong is what we gotta do. That's what is right.

chuck-o-duck

(6 posts)
91. I get ya
Sat Mar 14, 2026, 01:43 AM
4 hrs ago

hey
I get it
I am not a woman but a mid sixties man. But the stress. I get it. I really really get it.
Not the everyday stresses. We can handle them.
It's the maggats, the trumpsters, the christistian bigots and their self righteous BS.
Gets me way down too and yes. I have had to sit down and cry too. For a while.
No one needs this extra stress.
We can't make them go away. But we do outnumber them by a long long shot.
Do not stop standing back up.

Ziggysmom

(4,107 posts)
93. I totally understand! Last week one night I was asleep and the hallway smoke alarm
Sat Mar 14, 2026, 03:37 AM
2 hrs ago

Started that low battery beep crap. I get out ladder with new battery in my pocket. I remove the old battery and replace it. Put away ladder, get back in bed and just dozed off when BEEP BEEP BEEP started again. Now I get out ladder again and this time remove the unit from the ceiling, maybe it’s dusty and needs to be cleaned out. Go through the whole replacement routine again. Get back to sleep and BEEP! Got so dang mad I took it down, removed the battery, threw it on the floor and stomped on it till I was sure it was dead.

I would not have done that when Biden was in offfice!! M

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