Managing Election Stress
Feeling down or anxious about the election? Here are some stress management tips.
Acknowledge feelings. Take stock for a moment. Many folks are anxious about the outcome of the election, no matter which side they support. Fears are grounded in realistic concerns about changes in policies which will directly impact their lives. It’s common to get caught up in the worst case scenarios, the “what if’s”; and while we may have well-founded, rational concerns, this is fuel for anxiety and depression. If we regulate our emotions and reduce stress, we’ll be much more effective in responding to these challenges in the future.
Jot down your feelings in a journal or voice them to a friend or therapist. It’s remarkable how awareness of a feeling can help lighten it.
Now what? As my friend Pam A, a licensed therapist says, “focus energy on what you can control or change, and let go of the rest.”
Seek community. Be around like-minded people. Whether you’re discussing current events in a supportive way or focusing on a shared interest, social connection can be incredibly helpful.
I noticed the effect of social connection in my personal life recently. This year, I joined a book club and have been bringing my 82-year-old mom. Since the pandemic, her world had become more isolated. We’ve now gone to several meetings and are getting to know the regular attendees. It’s enhanced both of our lives as we have an outing once a month to the meetings, not to mention the great snacks. Without engaging in political discussions, all of us learn more about other viewpoints and backgrounds and leave feeling better about the world.
As another example, some of my clients have joined discussion groups in their communities, such as Meet ups (meetup.com) or educational workshops. It makes a big difference in their lives in helping them feel connected and energized. One client said its effect is greater than medication for anxiety and depression.
Be around people. I’m aware there are barriers to putting yourself out there and joining a structured activity. In that case, get yourself out to a public space that’s open to everyone. Go to the library, coffee shop, or a park to connect with people in a low key way. Watching little kids play may lift your spirits. Reading a book (on paper) is a great conversation starter.
Focus on your sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Before you go to sleep at night or in the morning, give yourself a few minutes to plan how you’ll support your wellness the next day. Schedule a time for exercise. Even a short walk every day can help alleviate stress. I take a minute to picture myself doing the activity. This helps me remember to structure the time, bring my sneakers & jacket, or connect with a friend.
Engage your creativity. Notice the change in mindset when you give yourself time to indulge in creativity. For me, writing fiction is a wonderful outlet and stress relief. Try a coloring book or a puzzle, anything to put your brain in a different mode.
Practice mindfulness through guided meditation, yoga or pilates. Giving ourselves time to focus inwardly helps regulate emotions, reduces anxiety, stress and depression. I was reminded of the effects of this recently when I guided a client through a body scan exercise during our session. They came back the next week and said they were using it several times a day. It helped them notice where they are carrying tension in their body, take a breath, relax those muscles, immediately feeling better. It’s amazing how quickly a short exercise like this can help.
Spend quality time with friends and family. Another gem of Pam’s: “Connect with friends that refill your energy and friends that make you genuinely laugh.”
Keep your boundaries and devote time to people who make you feel good to be around.
Support tangible action. There are people out there in the world doing the work behind the changes you want. Find them. Read about them. Donate or follow them. It’s inspiring!
See my previous articles for more on mindfulness, creativity and overall wellness. I look forward to your comments!
Great ideas! Thank you!