Easing Election Stress: 5 Ways to Deal with Election Anxiety and Depression
By Anna Lau, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Do you feel worried about the upcoming US election? You are not alone. The stakes feel high to many people across the country and the political spectrum. But we can and will get through this election season, together. Here are a few ideas that can help us cope with feelings of election-related stress.
1. Look Within Yourself
Try a guided meditation. If you don’t want to meditate, just sit for a few minutes and notice what it feels like to breathe. Notice what’s going on in your mind without engaging with your thoughts. Write in a journal. Talk to a mental health professional. Try to identify the emotions that are coming up when you think about the election. Dig beneath the dominant emotion to see what lies below. For example, is your anger stemming from a deep-rooted fear? Is your fear connected to worry about what might happen to your family, community or country? Does your worry stem from your love for them? Connect with that loving part of yourself to move forward with a greater sense of peace
2. Take Care of Yourself
Build a habit of checking in with yourself regularly and asking, “What do I need right now?” in a kind, non-judgmental way. Set aside periods of time (a few hours, a day, or maybe even a whole weekend) to give yourself the gift of a media blackout: avoid all news and social media during this period. Use some of this extra time to recognize what you’re feeling grateful for. Practicing gratitude can lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety while strengthening our connections with others, giving us hope in difficult times.
3. Consider Different Viewpoints
When you do consume news, diversify your sources to include those you disagree with. Approach differences with a sense of curiosity rather than dogmatism. Recognize that others, even those with different political beliefs, also have a core sense of love for their families, communities, and country that may be causing them to feel afraid and angry too. We may disagree on what will make the future safe and secure, but we do share a deep-rooted human desire to protect our values and our loved ones. It can be soothing to build some understanding of why others believe what they believe.
4. Look at Your Greater Community
Allow your anxiety an outlet by taking an action. Reach out to connect with friends and family. On days you feel strong enough, offer to help someone with something. Volunteer on a campaign or with an organization you believe in. Being helpful can give us strength.
5. Savor the Privilege of Having the Right to Vote
You might feel frustrated or disheartened by how things are, but voting represents the ideal that every person’s voice is important. It is a way to express our hopes for a bright future for our loved ones and for generations to come.
If you feel like you’re struggling to manage your anxious or depressive thoughts about the election, our psychiatric nurse practitioners at Lavender are here to support you. Please reach out to us if you need someone to talk to. We’re here to listen and help.
All content and information on this website are for informational purposes only. None of the material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This information does not create any client-provider relationship. Please consult with your mental health care provider before making any health care decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition.