As the dust settles from the general election, we as a nation are facing heightened division and political tension and undergoing deep societal introspection. At the heart of these challenges is this question: How does the psychological impact of leadership ripple through society, shaping not just policy but also the collective mental health of a polarized public? The psychological dynamics of power and leadership are complex. Individuals in positions of authority often experience a “power paradox,” in which the traits that help them ascend — empathy, fairness and collaboration — are eroded by the very power they wield, research shows. This can lead to behaviors such as diminished empathy and increased egocentrism, which have significant consequences for public trust and societal cohesion. A 2022 study by the American Psychological Association found that 76% of Americans reported stress about the state of leadership in the country, with a notable 60% citing political divisiveness as a source of anxiety. The same study revealed that prolonged exposure to divisive rhetoric increases feelings of helplessness and exacerbates conditions such as depression and anxiety, particularly among young adults. This phenomenon is not new. Authoritarian regimes and dysfunctional corporate culture show how leadership styles can affect a population’s psychological well-being. For instance, studies conducted in post-conflict regions reveal that individuals exposed to years of authoritarian governance exhibit higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder and diminished trust in institutions. Similarly, in today’s America, the consequences of polarizing leadership can be seen in communities where contentious policies or rhetoric particularly affect marginalized groups. For example, immigrant communities, which have faced heightened scrutiny and hostility in recent years, have reported significant increases in anxiety disorders, according to a 2021 report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The fallout from abuse of power extends beyond politics. In workplaces, hierarchical dynamics often mirror the national stage. Employees who report working under authoritarian leadership are 56% more likely to experience burnout and 22% more likely to report symptoms of depression, according to a 2023 Gallup survey. Moreover, these employees are more likely to disengage from their roles, which leads to lost productivity and workplace tension. In schools, we can see the effects of divisive rhetoric and power struggles in the increase in prevalence of bullying and mental health crises. A 2020 analysis by The Washington Post documented more than 300 incidents from 2016 to 2020 in which students or school staff used President-elect Donald Trump’s words or name to harass others, demonstrating how political discourse can influence behavior in schools. Additionally, in a recent report, Vox highlighted how rhetoric from public figures has apparently amplified bullying, as children parrot the divisive language and biases they see modeled for them. Fortunately, the inverse is also true: Ethical, compassionate leadership can act as a buffer against this kind of societal stress. Studies on resilience suggest that inclusive and empathetic leaders help their communities navigate crises more effectively. They foster trust, mitigate division and empower people to engage in constructive dialogue. During the pandemic, for instance, countries with leaders who communicated empathetically and decisively saw greater compliance with public health measures and lower rates of distress among citizens. This underscores the profound connection between leadership styles and public mental health outcomes. As we enter a new year, the role of leadership in shaping societal mental health cannot be overstated. From the halls of Congress to corporate boardrooms, the psychological dynamics of power will play a pivotal role in determining whether the nation heals or deepens its divides. The next few years will define not just the political trajectory of our nation, but also the emotional and mental well-being of millions. Younger generation that have grown up in a world of instant communication and polarizing rhetoric are particularly vulnerable. For them, leadership is not an abstract concept — it is something they experience every day in their classrooms, workplaces and communities. If our leaders continue to stoke division and mistrust, young people are at risk of anxiety, disillusionment and a fractured sense of identity. But, if leaders embrace empathy and inclusivity, they have the power to guide the nation through healing and create unity and collective well-being. As citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable, not only for their policies but also for their influence on our mental health. We must demand leaders who prioritize transparency, understanding and unity. In a divided nation, ethical leadership isn’t just an ideal — it’s a lifeline. The stakes are high. The mental health of a generation depends on how we lead now. It’s time for leadership that listens, heals and builds a future in which no one is left behind. If we rise to this challenge, we can transform our politics and the spirit of our nation. Leadership is about people, not power. And it is through compassionate leadership that we will find the strength to heal and rebuild a divided nation. Abhinav Anne is a social entrepreneur, youth advocate and biological sciences researcher with a focus on global public health. He represents the United States as the youngest appointed World Health Organization adviser and Youth Council member, advising them on policies regarding mental health, nicotine addiction, noncommunicable diseases and the climate crisis.  Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email [email protected].