All my life, these type of people who protest the most stupidest things,creates an anxiety in me. It's like I have to pay attention, I have to make myself available to them to empty all their angst into me (reminds me of the relationship with my step mother).

Of late I've stood still, heard what someone was outrageously, outraged about (normally a slight at work) and not replied. Just smiled and then continued with my work.
I've noticed the outraged colleague is than left to deal with their own emotions and I'm not filled with anger. I keep my peace of mind.
Before therapy I thought I HAD to be available as a sounding board. My anxiety would drive me than to try and 'fix' the outraged colleague. That I wouldn't be liked if I didn't fully engage and make them 'number 1' (def my step mother)
It is really something to behold when this change occurs. You realise that these people were really never interested in you. But only in their own self.
It's amazing what therapy can do.

[Ellahmae]

I am experiencing this right now - thanks for wording it so well!

[unaluna]

I like how mykidsarecool puts it: "not my zoo, not my monkeys!" Words to live by!