In general I stay away from the news, especially mainstream news. I hardly watch the news except the local news or the news programs on PBS. I stay away from FOX, CNN, MSNBC, etc. If you watch network news, you probably think the sky is falling.
I would say that things are less than ideal. We are fighting a war which I don't understand, obesity is epidemic, we are addicted to non-renewable resources, religion is again a primary issue with Republicans, the American economy is losing its advantage, etc.
Overall, it is still a good era to live in and America is still a decent place to reside. We still have the power and resources to shape our lives and future.
I don't think this is the most progressive time to live in, but it is certainly not oppressive.