How to Cope with Election Stress and Anxiety

Election season can be an incredibly stressful and divisive time for many people. Part of this is because our brains are wired to pay attention to negative news. In fact, research has shown that negative experiences have a longer-lasting impact on our brains compared to positive experiences. (Psychology Today). And unfortunately, elections have a habit of emphasizing the negative and highlighting differences among neighbors, friends, and family members. [LB1]

According to Psychiatry.org:

While it’s important to pay attention to the decisions being made by local and national leaders (and nearly impossible to avoid during election season), it is also important to take care of ourselves. You deserve rest and time to reset.

So, here are five tips to cope with election stress & anxiety.

1. Reconnect with family and friends

It’s okay if you need to take a break from social media and connect with trusted friends, family and community members. If you have concerns over the election, share those with people you feel safe with to get those concerns off your chest.

2. Channel stress into something productive

You have the power to impact your community more than you think! It feels good to know you are making a difference. Create a plan to donate, volunteer, or share the message of an organization or cause you support. This action doesn’t have to be political necessarily, though it certainly can be. If you feel overwhelmed by larger systemic challenges and controversies, see what actions you can take at the local level – such as in your neighborhood, town, or county.

3. Limit media consumption

Reduce the amount of media you are consuming if it begins to have a negative impact on your mental health and wellness. Be mindful of how media consumption – be it TV, internet, social media, or elsewhere - makes you feel and adjust your behavior accordingly. For example, try limiting TV time and phone screen time. Set parameters on your TV or turn off notifications on your phone. 

4. Set clear boundaries 

Conversations around the election can cause stress and anxiety, especially when engaging with someone who has different political views and values. When having these discussions, it’s often helpful to try to understand their point of view rather than to persuade them to adopt yours. If you don’t wish to have these conversations at all, that is okay too. Prepare phrases to use when you need to disconnect and disengage from a conversation. For example, try phrases like, “Thank you for the conversation, but I have to go now” or “I appreciate this conversation, but I need to get back to work”.

5. Don’t forget self-care

Overall, take care of yourself by remembering the fundamentals of stress management. Eat healthy, get some exercise, focus on a hobby, get enough sleep, and avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms like drugs and alcohol. 

Need more support?

Elections can be stressful for many people. If you are feeling overwhelmed and in need of professional support, Mental Health Partners is here for you. Learn more about how to get started receiving care.