Coping with Election Anxiety Through Self-Care 

As the U.S. presidential election approaches, many people are grappling with increased stress and anxiety. With significant issues at stake, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by the constant flow of information and varying opinions. The outcome of the election may make people feel like the future is out of their control. One way to regain a sense of control when you feel this way is to take care of yourself.

It’s extremely easy to become stressed and anxious about the future with a 24-hour news cycle constantly buzzing and social media overflowing with opinions. To combat this, consider limiting time spent interacting with media, both with journalistic sources and on social media. Finding the right balance between staying informed about issues and not feeling overwhelmed can be challenging, but it can help ease some anxiety.

“In times of uncertainty, it’s vital to remember that taking care of our mental health is as important as staying informed,” Kristen Ulrich, Senior Director of Crisis Services said. “Prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries not only supports our well-being but also empowers us to engage in meaningful conversations and make a difference in our communities.”

Invest your time in learning about candidates and issues that matter to you, while seeking reliable sources that offer balanced viewpoints. Engaging in thoughtful discussions with friends or community members can create a supportive environment, enabling the exchange of ideas without becoming overwhelmed.

Political discourse can quickly become hostile and unproductive. It’s important to set boundaries to protect your mental well-being. Curate your social media feed to focus on accounts that do not cause anxiety. This can help create a more supportive online environment, allowing you to choose when you do or don’t engage with stressful news media or opposing viewpoints.

Prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries not only supports our well-being but also empowers us to engage in meaningful conversations and make a difference in our communities.

Developing self-awareness by evaluating your emotional state before speaking and considering the difference between intention and impact can help prevent unproductive conversations. Taking a moment to breathe and clarify your intentions before speaking can be a good practice to avoid saying something harmful.

Engaging in self-care is crucial during periods of heightened stress. Activities such as taking a walk outdoors, incorporating movement into your day, journaling your thoughts and feelings, or connecting with your support system can significantly benefit your mental well-being. Allow time for your mind to rest and rejuvenate; it can help you gain perspective, process your emotions, and recharge your energy. Prioritizing self-care not only supports your emotional health but also equips you to better handle stressors as they arise.

If you are struggling with election anxiety and need someone to talk to, consider reaching out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or text Hey Sam if you are under 25 and want peer support.

Focus on things within your control to help ground yourself in moments of stress or anxiety. If you’re eligible to vote, participating in elections is a powerful way to express your values and advocate for issues important to you.

If you cannot vote, consider ways to support your community by helping others register, sharing information about the election, or advocating for the issues you care about.

Connect with others to help ground and support yourself during times of high stress

Additionally, reaching out to your local representatives to express your views and concerns can be an empowering way to get involved. Your voice matters, and local leaders need to hear from constituents about the issues that impact their lives.

The upcoming presidential election can understandably cause significant stress and anxiety, especially when it feels like others are not taking it seriously. However, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health during this time. Practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and staying informed, can help you navigate this stressful time. Remember to be gentle with yourself and give yourself the space to step back when needed. Your well-being is not only important for you but also essential for your community as a whole.