Elections can be a time of excitement, hope, and anticipation—but for many, they also bring stress, anxiety, and even fear. The high-stakes nature of voting, constant media coverage, and heated debates can take a toll on mental well-being. If you're feeling overwhelmed during election season, you're not alone. While many of us wish we could play ostrich and bury our heads in the sand until election season concludes, we have to find a way to carry on while not allowing the political environment get the best of us. So how do we do that?
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
First, recognize that it's okay to feel anxious or stressed about an election. It's normal to care deeply about the outcome, especially when issues that affect your life and values are at stake. Instead of pushing your emotions aside, acknowledge them. This self-awareness can be the first step in managing stress.
2. Limit Media Consumption
The 24/7 news cycle can make it feel like election coverage is unavoidable. While staying informed is important, overexposure to political news can amplify stress. Set boundaries by limiting how much time you spend consuming news each day. Consider designating specific times to check updates, avoiding scrolling before bed, or take a social media break on the weekends.
3. Focus on What You Can Control
Election outcomes are beyond any individual’s control, which can lead to feelings of helplessness. Instead of fixating on the uncertainty, focus on what you can control. Vote, volunteer for a cause you believe in, or help inform others. Taking action can provide a sense of agency and purpose, helping you feel more empowered during election season.
4. Practice Self-Care
Self-care is vital during stressful times. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge—whether it’s exercise, meditation, reading, or spending time outdoors. Taking care of your body and mental well-being should be a priority, especially when external stressors are high.
5. Disconnect When Necessary
Sometimes, the best way to manage stress is to take a break from it all. If you find yourself constantly stressed about the election, it may be time to step away from discussions and updates for a while. This doesn't mean disengaging permanently, but giving yourself permission to recharge. Whether that’s taking a day off from the news, social media, or political conversations, these breaks can help you regain balance.
6. Maintain Perspective
Elections are important, but it’s helpful to remember that they are just one part of a larger, ongoing process of civic engagement and change. Regardless of the outcome, the world keeps moving forward, and opportunities for advocacy and participation continue. Maintaining perspective can help ease the intensity of election-related stress.
8. Seek Professional Support if Needed
If you find that election stress is significantly impacting your mental health, consider seeking professional support. Therapists and counselors can offer coping strategies tailored to your needs and help you navigate heightened anxiety.
Election stress is real, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. However, by setting boundaries, taking care of yourself, and staying grounded in what you can control, you can better manage the emotional toll of the election season. Remember, staying informed and engaged doesn’t mean sacrificing your peace of mind- balance is key.
