After months of talks, debates, and discussions, the presidential election is almost here. As a US citizen, you have the right to cast your vote and help decide who leads our country.
But if we’re being honest, that’s actually a lot of pressure. Election season can be stressful, and it can take a toll on our mental health.
If you’ve been feeling on edge as November 5th approaches, you’re definitely not alone. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 73% of US adults feel anxious about the election.
And with the nonstop news cycle, heated debates on social media, and the pressure to make that all-important “right” choice, it’s no wonder stress levels are skyrocketing!
This is a friendly reminder that feeling anxious during election season is totally normal. Seriously, there’s nothing to be ashamed of! If anything, it shows how much you care about what’s going on in our country.
To help you navigate these negative emotions, we’ve broken down why you might feel this way and shared some practical tips to help you keep your cool amidst the chaos of election season.
What makes election season so stressful?
There are many reasons why election season leaves us feeling overwhelmed and out of sorts. Here are some of the most common:
Information overload
There’s no doubt it’s important to stay informed during election season. After all, there’s a lot to keep in mind in order to make a well-informed decision when it’s time to cast your vote.
But with a constant stream of news articles, social media discussions, and political ads bombarding you from every which way, it’s hard not to shut down from information overload.
Sorting through this sea of information can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling burnt out. And with so much info being circulated, before long, the lines between facts and opinions start to blur, causing even more anxiety and confusion.
Fear of clashing with friends and family
The current political climate is more polarized than ever in our country. And many attach intense feelings to their political views, taking heated offense to anyone who takes a different stance or supports another candidate.
As a result, politics have become the elephant in every room that we just can’t escape. This tension of opposing political beliefs can leave us feeling on edge, worried that a well-meaning comment might spark a conflict with someone we care about.
Election outcomes will impact your life
When the election touches on issues that matter to you, the stakes suddenly feel sky-high. You might find yourself worrying about how the results will affect your life and the lives of those you care about.
Whether it’s healthcare, education, social justice, or something else that hits close to home, the personal implications can be a significant source of anxiety.
Politics aren’t your strong suit
Politics are complicated, and some people struggle to make sense of it all—and that’s okay.
But it’s difficult to cast a confident vote when you’re not 100% sure what’s going on. And when you feel pressured to take part in debates about topics you’re not familiar with, it can be anxiety-inducing, to say the least.
The fear of making the wrong choice
Casting your vote is an important privilege in American culture. But it’s also a lot of pressure. What if none of the candidates feel like the right choice? Figuring out who to support can be really tough.
This sense of responsibility can lead to anxiety and even hopelessness, making you wonder if you’re truly informed enough to make a meaningful choice. It’s a lot to carry, especially when you want your vote to count.
How to deal with political anxiety
Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can ease election-related stress as the big day draws closer.
Limit how much news you consume
Setting boundaries can feel nearly impossible with the nonstop flow of news hitting us from our phones. But it’s still super important to try!
If you’re struggling with political stress, we recommend picking specific times during the day to check for updates, steering clear of social media and news sites outside those slots (don’t worry, it’s just for a few weeks!).
Stick to a couple of reliable news sources, and avoid the sensational stuff that just adds to the chaos.
Have healthy discussions
Always remember, you’re not obligated to talk politics with anyone you don’t want to. If you do feel up to discussing politics, that’s great! Just be sure to stick to people who share your values or can keep things respectful.
If a conversation seems like it’s headed for chaos, it’s totally okay to remove yourself from it! The key is to focus on discussions that feel safe and constructive for you.
Focus on what you can control
The truth is, you alone can’t control how the election will unfold. But you can control your own actions. So, instead of stressing about the overall result of the ballot, think about what you can do right now.
For example, researching candidates and issues or making a solid plan to vote. Knowing you’re doing everything in your power is a great way to help yourself feel calmer and more in control.
Take good care of yourself
Taking care of your mind, body, and spirit can make all the difference in this hectic time. Prioritize your overall well-being and physical health by getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, staying active, and taking part in other self-care activities.
And think about adding mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your routine to help you feel more grounded and at ease.
Talk to a professional
If you’re feeling anxious or depressed about politics, and it’s starting to get in the way of your everyday life, it might be time to reach out to a mental health professional.
Talking to a therapist or counselor can give you the support and guidance you need to help you manage election anxiety. When you work with the right professional, they’ll offer personalized tools and strategies to help you deal with election stress.
Wrapping up
Politics can make people anxious, and with election season in full swing, it’s completely normal to feel stressed right now. But remember, you’re not alone.
When you understand the reasons why you’re feeling so anxious and take proactive steps to get it under control, you can find healthy ways to navigate this turbulent period.
Whether that’s cutting down on the news you consume, taking part in supportive conversations, or asking a professional for help, there are many healthy ways to maintain your well-being during the upcoming election.
Find the support you need at Western Tidewater Community
Western Tidewater Community Services Board (WTCSB) is here to provide you with the personalized care you need to make it through election season with peace of mind.
We offer a wide range of mental health services addressing issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional distress. Our crisis support is available to provide immediate assistance when you need it most.
With well-trained, compassionate counselors ready to help, you’ll find a supportive environment where you can express your feelings and develop coping strategies.
Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help, or call our 24-hour emergency line at (757) 925-2484 for immediate support. Your mental well-being is our priority!