We all share whatever comes next in the daily American political story. We ask Who? What? Where? When? Why? How?

The division among us, I believe, largely stems from our sources of information. I often find myself questioning the location and foundation of others’ beliefs and suspect they do the same to me, highlighting a core obstacle to understanding.

We all think we’re right. Like the teen who wants to go to a party and parents say, “No!” Both have strong reasons and rarely agree. Each feels correct for their right reasons.

The ongoing turmoil in our political landscape takes a tangible toll on mental health, including my own. My well-being depends on disengaging from the relentless news cycle, yet distancing from information leaves me feeling isolated and uninformed.

I admit I’m afraid of what’s to come. Fear can keep me safe, but often serves little purpose. I applaud those with courage and informed voices from respected sources.

Despite our differences, I believe that if we rely on common sense and shared principles, we can overcome the challenges we face as a country.

Despite our differences—whether political, economic, or otherwise—we are united by our shared fate. In times of crisis, this unity emerges as we come together to support each other.

This Sunday’s Homily addressed needs. Processing the message, I identified my needs as peace, common courtesy, and the ability to find good—even in those who are unlike me. What are your needs?

I tried the math today. It’s odd that our unrest is sold as being about illegal immigrants. We have 343,145,157 citizens and a high estimate of 15 million, or 4.4%, who are undocumented. Some are criminals, as are some citizens, but most are not.

To me, our Legislative, Judicial, and Executive branches seem to incite violence and increase the national debt by billions to target a small percentage of mostly peaceful, hardworking people.

If our leaders would fix immigration while prioritizing the real, daily needs of over 95% of American citizens, I believe our sense of stability and well-being would improve as a nation. Would or could that also benefit your mental health?

Until the next time: Live while you live.

Jennifer Goble, Ph.D., LPC, is the author of “My Clients…My Teachers,” and the blogger and writer of Rural Women Stories: www.ruralwomenstories.com.

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