Mental Health and Protests: The solidarity we persist in is a Remedy for Our Collectively Traumatized Society

When we react to a situation “as if it were a matter of life and death,” psychologists call this a “threat response” (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn). These reactions are accompanied by heightened reactivity or, conversely, apathy, withdrawal, and the belief that “nothing can change.” Living in a state of threat feels more like surviving than truly living and it limits our growth.

Psychological work on these reactions is only possible when we can connect with a sense of safety in our present – on a personal, interpersonal, and societal level.

But what happens when that’s not the case? When we live with a chronic sense of threat to our basic rights, needs, and very existence?

In such circumstances, an intensified sense of danger is a natural response. Long-term insecurity is draining because, at its core, it is profoundly traumatizing.

A crucial step in healing our communities begins with re-establishing a collective sense of safety among people. In a system we don’t perceive as safe, the strength of solidarity is essential – it reminds us that we are allies and support for one another. 

Solidarity has the power to overcome fear, restore agency to our community, and recognize togetherness as the greatest source of resilience and hope.

The ability to be socially engaged, psychologically present, and benevolently connected to our surroundings is key to beginning recovery from collective trauma. Yet, maintaining this connection is difficult when the sense of safety is repeatedly disrupted.

During protests, communities re-establish trust and security through strong organization, solidarity, and a shared sense of purpose. Defining common values and goals, alongside solidarity-driven actions, creates “islands of safety” within unsafe conditions. These moments are not just acts of resistance; they are celebrations of collective strength and resilience.

When solidarity, goodwill, and shared goals take center stage – when they are demonstrated openly and loudly – the psychological sense of threat diminishes at a collective level and begins to transform. What once felt like paralyzing powerlessness shifts into motivation for collective action.

In uncertain times, persisting in acts of solidarity and collective care becomes the strongest foundation for resilience and the key to long-term communal recovery.

How do we sustain collective moments of safety in unsafe conditions?

1. Preserving the sense of togetherness:
   A healthy fight response is sustained through acts of solidarity – moments where togetherness overcomes fear. It’s when people at protests show unity, march together, stand in silence together, grieve losses together, and call for justice, transparency, and accountability together. It’s also visible when protestors treat one another with respect, channeling anger into assertiveness and protection rather than destruction. These actions help reduce feelings of isolation and overwhelm.
2. Collective co-regulation:
   Protests often carry intense “fight” energy, which can lead to exhaustion. Breaks for relaxation and creative activities help regulate stress, prevent excessive reactivity, and redirect energy toward constructive solutions.
3. Recognizing fear without judgment:
   Instead of criticizing those who remain passive, it’s important to understand that many people are in a state of collapse due to learned helplessness. Through open conversations and empowering messages, we can help people regain a sense of personal agency and collective impact.
4. The role of creativity in protests:
   Artistic expressions – witty signs, songs, performances – are not just decorative elements of protests. They serve as emotional outlets, foster connection, and send powerful messages. Creativity transforms anger and frustration into hope and inspiration.
5. Long-term care for the community:
   Solidarity doesn’t end when a protest is over. Long-term security comes from knowing that a healthy, supportive community continues to exist and thrive beyond the immediate challenges.

When people come together in solidarity, when they face fears collectively and re-establish examples of community care they aspire to, they don’t just resist oppression – they heal social wounds. Recovery through protest is not just about fighting for change; it’s about creating spaces where we learn to trust each other again, where we find strength in togetherness, where we remind ourselves that we are not alone in our desire for a healthier society. It is proof that meaningful, collective action is possible.

Photo: Gavrilo Andrić