…religious values* (values being a stand in for religious organizations bribing lobbying) politicians to pass laws enabling discrimination.

What does the word political mean to you? To take the most liberal (as in political affiliation) definition, this is the consequences of a law passed by elected leaders. This law was only allowed to take effect because an anti trans healthcare bill (also from Tennessee) was upheld by the supreme court. The contents of this article is entirely a consequence of our political process. If fascists weren’t actively promoting discrimination, this bill wouldn’t exist and this woman wouldn’t have been denied care she needed. Just because a law has the word “ethics” in it doesn’t mean it ceases to be political.

Even ignorning that, religion is political. Doubly so in America. We have politicians writing laws that religious leaders want. We have politicians writing laws alienating people due to them being non-chrisitan. We’re living through a fascist coup. Religion is a large part of fascism

How are those things different/mutually exclusive? This is literally a law, drafted and passed by politicians, that allowed someone’s “values” to be used to deny someone medical care. How isn’t this political?

For once I hope he succeeds

You’re not alone OP, I’m in a similar boat. If I may make some suggestions, talk to your girlfriend again. Let her know how bad it is for you right now. Hopefully she listens and tries to support you in ways that helps.

Second, you should really consider a psychiatrist and therapy if you can afford it. (I’m going to assume you’re in the US). The Open Path Collective is a low cost network of therapists. You pay a one time membership fee and then sessions range from $30 to a maximum of $70. And Psychology Today has a psychiatrist finder thing that has all sorts of filters to find a psychiatrist that’s right for you, including low cost options. They can help you find a medication that’s right for you.

I know people talk a lot of shit about antidepressants (and to an extent, I agree with a lot of the criticisms) but it’s undeniable that they do help take the edge off. When you’re on a good one, all it does is pluck the depression out of your brain, it’s a very subtle feeling but it makes a world of difference.

Lastly, I would suggest that you try getting active in your community. Find an organization that aligns with your politics, or is doing work that you feel is important and just show up to a meeting/public event they’re having. It’s very likely they need the help and would take you in with open arms. There’s a degree of fulfillment and relief that comes with being able to do good for those around you and actually seeing the results that medication can’t provide. Food Not Bombs is a pretty ubiquitous organization that focuses on feeding the homeless. My local FNB also sets up a free store and we have a bicycle mechanic that does free maintenance for our neighbors. If cooking isn’t your forte, there’s always something else you could do to make a difference.

You have every reason to feel depressed right now OP. But I hope you’re able to improve your situation and work towards healing. Take care

There are non hierarchical societies littered throughout history, even today the zapatistas and peoples in rojava are non-hierarchical. Being in an organized social group, even numbering into the millions, does not necessitate hierarchy

The history of hierarchy*