Audio: Your anxiety isn’t just in your head. It’s a warning sign about democracy.

Hi everybody,

This is the audio version of my Feb. 11 column, which I originally titled, “Cognitive dissonance is a signal. Are you listening?” A friend told me the essay was one of her favorites, but that the headline was so intangible in a time when people need concrete information that she didn’t know if people would click on it. “You don’t have to make people rage click,” she said, “But let them know they’re not alone with their feelings.”

You’ll have to tell me if she’s right. I updated the title. The column — with the new headline — is below. In it, you’ll find durable skills to turn discomfort into clarity and action.

The audio version is one of the benefits that paid subscribers enjoy. If that’s you, thank you for financially supporting independent research, writing and analysis to connect the dots between mental health and democracy. Others have access to a 30-second tease as well as the written essay below.

Thanks to all of you for being a part of this community, which is nurturing collective wellbeing through a more informed, empathetic and engaged electorate. I’ve been hearing from many of you, and it’s heartening that you’re drawing strength, inspiration and hope from what you’re finding here.

Stay in touch — and inspired,

Kate