As Election Day approaches, the heightened political climate can bring waves of emotions and stress for many. Conversations around politics, the relentless stream of campaign ads, and social media debates can be intense and overwhelming. For some, this time can even contribute to heightened anxiety, frustration, and a sense of uncertainty about the future. Here, we’ll discuss how political events can impact mental health and offer strategies to help you stay grounded, focused, and calm as we navigate the election season.
The Psychological Impact of Election Season
The lead-up to elections often brings out strong emotions, values, and beliefs that touch deeply personal aspects of people’s lives. Clients and clinicians alike notice how discussions around elections can shift from respectful to hostile, creating rifts even in close relationships. Some of the most common mental health challenges that arise during election seasons include:
Increased Anxiety: Worry about political outcomes can lead to spiraling thoughts about the future, safety, and stability.
Frustration and Anger: Witnessing or experiencing opposing viewpoints, especially on social media, can lead to frustration, anger, and even resentment.
Fatigue and Burnout: Consuming a constant stream of political news and updates can be draining and lead to feeling overwhelmed or emotionally exhausted.
Feelings of Helplessness: In the face of overwhelming issues, some feel as though they lack control, leading to feelings of helplessness or hopelessness.
Understanding these effects is crucial for clients to feel validated in their experiences and to begin practicing proactive self-care during election season.
Tips to Manage Mental Health During Election Season
Limit News and Social Media Consumption
Set Boundaries: Decide when and how long you’ll consume news. Try to avoid checking political updates first thing in the morning or right before bed. Designating time limits on news and social media can help prevent burnout and preserve your mental clarity.
Curate Your Feed: Consider unfollowing or muting accounts that frequently post divisive content. Focus on reliable sources, and avoid sensationalist outlets that amplify fear and outrage.
Practice Mindfulness and Stay Present
Mindfulness Exercises: Grounding yourself in the present can alleviate feelings of fear about the future. Practicing deep breathing exercises, guided meditation, or grounding techniques can help break cycles of anxious thoughts.
Take Mindful Breaks: Election season can bring an atmosphere of constant tension. Taking time to step outside, engage in deep breathing, or do a calming activity can help you detach from political stress.
Engage in Civil Conversations or Set Boundaries
Know Your Limits: It’s okay to politely decline conversations that might escalate or cause stress. Phrases like “Let’s talk about something else” or “I’d rather not discuss politics right now” can help.
Practice Empathy: When engaging in discussions, approach them with curiosity and empathy. Try to understand different perspectives without feeling obligated to agree. This can prevent arguments from becoming heated and protect your mental well-being.
Focus on What You Can Control
Take Action: Whether it’s voting, volunteering, or supporting causes you believe in, engaging in positive action can alleviate feelings of helplessness. Taking action creates a sense of empowerment and reminds you that you are contributing to the change you want to see.
Embrace Personal Goals: While the election season may feel all-consuming, staying focused on your personal goals and routines is essential. Remind yourself of the stability in your daily life by prioritizing hobbies, relationships, and self-care.
Prioritize Self-Care and Routine
Stick to Healthy Habits: Regular sleep, exercise, balanced meals, and hydration all play a role in mental health. A steady routine offers stability and helps counteract the mental fatigue that often arises during politically charged times.
Practice Gratitude: Reflecting on what you are grateful for can shift your mindset and combat feelings of negativity. It doesn’t have to be big—small moments of appreciation can make a difference.
Seek Support and Talk It Out
Connect with Loved Ones: Sometimes, sharing your thoughts with supportive friends or family members can be incredibly therapeutic. Knowing that you’re not alone in your thoughts and feelings can provide a sense of solidarity.
Consider Professional Support: If political stress is affecting your ability to function in daily life, a mental health professional can offer strategies for managing anxiety, anger, or other difficult emotions. Therapists provide a safe space to talk about these concerns without judgment.
A Gentle Reminder
Election season will pass, and life will continue beyond this political moment. The heightened emotions surrounding elections are temporary, though they may feel intense and unrelenting at the moment. Remember, it’s okay to step back, take a breath, and prioritize your mental health. Political seasons can bring significant challenges, but they can also provide opportunities to practice self-care, resilience, and empathy.
With the right strategies in place, it’s possible to navigate the election season while staying grounded and mentally healthy. Managing stress today sets the stage for clearer perspectives and peace of mind, no matter the outcome.
With Love,
Sharika Pruitt, Ed.S, LPCS, NCC
Executive Director & Founder of Crossroads to Pathways Counseling
Comments