Vice President Kamala Harris has shared her personal approach to maintaining mental health amid the pressures of public office.
According to HuffPost, Harris disclosed her "No. 1 rule" for protecting her mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care strategies in her high-profile role.
During an appearance on the "All The Smoke" podcast, Harris engaged in a wide-ranging discussion that touched on various aspects of her personal and professional life. When asked about prioritizing mental health, especially given her groundbreaking achievements, the vice president was quick to share her top piece of advice.
Harris emphasized the importance of avoiding online negativity, stating her primary rule: "Don't read the comments." She stressed this point, underlining its significance in maintaining a healthy mental state.
The vice president elaborated on her holistic approach to well-being, mentioning physical exercise and cooking as additional strategies she employs. Harris described her method as focusing on "mind, body and spirit."
Furthermore, Harris highlighted the value of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. She expressed gratitude for her family and longstanding friendships, including a best friend from her childhood days.
During the podcast, Harris also tackled questions about her racial identity, which has been a subject of public scrutiny and political attacks.
The vice president, born to immigrant parents from India and Jamaica, responded to false claims about her identity with confidence and clarity. She dismissed attempts to question her racial background, stating:
I'm really clear about who I am, and if anybody else is not, they need to go through their own level of therapy — that's not my issue. My mother was very clear. She was raising two Black girls to be two proud Black women. And that was never — it was never a question.
Harris's firm stance on her identity reflects her approach to dealing with political criticism and misinformation campaigns targeting her background.
The vice president's candid discussion about mental health strategies sheds light on the challenges faced by public figures in maintaining their well-being while under constant scrutiny.
Her advice to avoid reading comments aligns with growing awareness of the potential negative impacts of social media on mental health. This guidance may resonate with many individuals navigating online spaces, not just those in the public eye.
Harris's emphasis on physical activity, hobbies, and strong personal relationships as part of her mental health regimen underscores the importance of a balanced lifestyle in high-pressure environments.
In conclusion, Vice President Kamala Harris shared her top mental health tips, advising against reading online comments. She emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, including exercise and supportive relationships. Harris also addressed questions about her racial identity, firmly asserting her background and dismissing attempts to challenge it.