Some people call it “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” Cute. Adorable, even. As if the collective stress response happening across half the country is just a quirky little overreaction, like we all suddenly decided to cosplay as Victorian fainting ladies clutching our pearls over nothing.

The “derangement” isn’t coming from nowhere. It’s the natural byproduct of watching democratic norms wobble like a Jenga tower in a windstorm. It’s the tension of seeing institutions strained, checks and balances tested, and political rhetoric pushed past the point where your therapist says, “Maybe… take a break from the news?”

So yes, maybe I am a little jumpy. Maybe my heart rate spikes every time a headline includes the words “breaking,” “Trump,” or “unprecedented.” Maybe I’ve started drinking coffee like it’s a patriotic duty.

But if caring about democracy, accountability, and the rule of law makes me “deranged,” then pour me another cup and hand me the label maker. I’ll wear it proudly.

Because the truth is simple: paying attention isn’t hysteria. It’s citizenship. And if that makes me a little caffeinated and a lot concerned, well… welcome to the club.