Stress And The Election
With everything that has been going on and the election being next week, I wanted to take a moment to reach out about the stress elections can bring. We are seeing many folks coming in to manage the stress this has brought. In fact, the data itself is showing significantly increased rates of stress (surprise!).
With our presidential election literally around the corner, Americans are reportedly showing more stress than in the 2016 election. Last election, 52% of Americans reported the presidential election as a major source of stress whereas this election 68% are reporting so, regardless of political affiliations. It appears that more of us are stressed about what the future holds for our nation as well as the current political climate. Undoubtedly, there is significant turmoil in our country right now. Ok, so, that being said (and not like you didn’t really know it anyway), what can we do about it? Here some tips to help you manage election stress:
Uncertainty is hard for most humans. If you find yourself dwelling on things you can’t control, try to remind yourself that you have survived some kind of uncertainty before in your life. You can do it again. That doesn’t mean it is easy but it does mean you can get through it.
Take a break. If you find yourself locked on the screen watching and reading stressful news, stop. Limit the amount of time you allow yourself access to stressful information. Focus on what you can control, even if it feels small in comparison.
Find thanks. While the stress of the election may make it hard to focus on the positive, take a moment to make a list of things for which you are grateful. Even the smallest things can bring a bit of relief and a reminder that the election isn’t the only thing happening in our lives.
Find meaning. Engaging in meaningful activities is a proven stress reliever. If this election has you stressed, take part in something that brings joy. Make a plan and take the time to vote. Maybe this election inspires to join a volunteer effort. Maybe you take a break and volunteer with those less fortunate than yourself.
Stay connected. Just not to the news! Spend time with others. Emotional support during stressful times has been shown to help people cope better. Make plans with family or friends. Take time to connect virtually with those you don’t get to be with often.
Stay active. Go for a walk. Get out. Move. It doesn’t have to be about vigorous exercise every time you are active. Moving your body helps to give our brains a break. Research has consistently demonstrated that exercise has positive mental health benefits.
Finally, if we don’t know who the winner is on the actual election day, stay busy and give yourself set times to allow yourself to check the results. Checking over and over may only raise anxiety and create more stress.
Remember that you are not alone. The data is suggesting that most of us are stressed about this election. If you are really struggling to manage stress and anxiety, consider talking to a professional mental health provider. A couple of meetings may leave you with some personalized strategies that will serve you well for the long run.
Primary source: American Psychological Association
