In recent years, the term “Trump Derangement Syndrome” (TDS) has entered the political lexicon as a shorthand for what some see as an irrational and extreme reaction to former President Donald Trump. While the phrase is often used pejoratively, it’s worth exploring whether such a phenomenon exists and, if so, how it can be addressed or “cured.”

As a cultural and psychological phenomenon, Trump Derangement Syndrome exists at the intersection of politics, psychology, and social dynamics.

While it may not be a formally recognized condition, the behaviors it describes are real: emotional overreactions, cognitive biases, and polarized thinking. “Curing” TDS is less about treating a medical condition and more about addressing the broader issue of societal political polarization.

Before we can start to treat Trump Derangement Syndrome, we need to think critically about human psychology, political polarization, and how emotions shape our perceptions of public figures. The short answer is that Trump Derangement Syndrome, as a distinct psychological condition, isn’t formally recognized by any medical or psychological authorities. It’s not in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or any other clinical guide.

However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to it. Political polarization in the U.S. has reached historically high levels, and the 2024 election was particularly divisive. For some, Trump became more than just a politician; he embodied everything they opposed, and his every move was scrutinized through an emotional and ideological lens. This creates a feedback loop, where intense emotions become intertwined with political identity, making it harder for individuals to approach information about him dispassionately.

What Is Trump Derangement Syndrome?

Trump Derangement Syndrome is frequently used to describe a state of intense emotional and cognitive dissonance among critics of Donald Trump, wherein any action or statement from the former president is met with over-the-top opposition or panic, sometimes even to the point of irrationality. Critics of the term often argue that it minimizes valid concerns about Trump’s policies, rhetoric, or actions, while those who use it suggest that it encapsulates a disproportionate level of hostility and paranoia that obstructs reasoned discourse.

The concept of TDS has been invoked in various ways—sometimes as an explanation for the vitriolic opposition that Trump faces from the left or liberal-leaning individuals, and other times as an accusation that his supporters refuse to see his flaws or downplay his more controversial actions.

How Do We “Cure” Trump Derangement Syndrome?

Suppose we accept that TDS, in some form, exists as a symptom of extreme political polarization. In that case, we can explore ways to reduce its impact and promote a more balanced, nuanced political discourse. Here are some potential approaches:

• Acceptance and Moving Forward: Sometimes, the best way to “cure” TDS is simply to accept that some political figures will always be divisive and to find ways to move forward by focusing on shared goals, common values, and long-term solutions rather than remaining mired in the personal animosities surrounding a single figure.

• Encourage Critical Thinking and Media Literacy: Overcoming TDS requires individuals to develop stronger critical thinking skills and media literacy. A constant barrage of sensationalized headlines and partisan commentary can amplify emotions and reinforce biases. Encouraging people to evaluate news sources critically, seek out diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful reflection can help reduce knee-jerk reactions and emotional escalation.

• Promote Dialogue Over Demonization: Political debates often devolve into personal attacks rather than substantive discussions about policy and principles. Promoting dialogue over demonization means focusing on the issues rather than reducing political opponents to caricatures.

• Practice Emotional Regulation: Political engagement can stir up intense emotions, but learning to regulate those emotions is key to productive discourse. Mindfulness practices, stress reduction techniques, and cognitive-behavioral approaches can help individuals process their feelings without letting them dictate their political behavior. This can help mitigate TDS’s “deranged” aspect—when emotional reactions obscure rational thinking.

Bottom line…

I find it amazing that Donald Trump got votes from faithful Christians, Jews, and Muslims, as it is about this time in history and the ancient battle between good and evil. 

As far as I can tell, TDS is a psychological illness prevalent among college-educated bitchy rich older white girls and the gays and beta males that surround them—promoted by a politicized media propaganda machine.

Gender Dysphoria is a recognized mental illness [DSM-5 302.85 (F64. 9)] defined as a marked difference between a person's expressed or experienced gender and their assigned gender. This difference must last for at least six months and be manifested by at least two of the following: a strong desire to be rid of one's primary or secondary sex characteristics, a strong desire for the primary or secondary sex characteristics of the other gender, a strong desire to be treated as the other gender, and a strong conviction that one has the typical feelings and reactions of the other gender.

To legally compel me to recognize your delusions for political reasons is wrong.

We are so screwed.

--Steve