The past few years have tested the resilience of many people, with global events and political shifts adding layers of uncertainty and stress. For Americans, particularly since the contentious 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, election-related anxiety has reached unprecedented levels. Every political contest, from local races to the presidency, now seems to carry immense weight. In 2024, as Americans prepare for yet another election cycle, many are grappling with heightened stress and uncertainty.
A recent survey from the American Psychological Association highlights this concern: 68% of American adults reported that the 2020 election was a significant source of stress. For comparison, only 52% expressed similar feelings ahead of the 2016 election. This rise in election-related anxiety is compounded by ongoing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, economic instability, and social unrest.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the upcoming election, you’re not alone. However, there are ways to manage this anxiety and protect your mental well-being.
Is It Normal to Be Stressed or Anxious about Elections?
Yes. Elections shape our future, and it’s natural to feel stressed. However, in recent years, the divisiveness surrounding politics has intensified, making it difficult to avoid constant reminders, whether through news, social media, or conversations with others. For many, avoiding election-related content as a way to de-stress has become nearly impossible.
The relentless bombardment of political ads, opinions, and debates can make it difficult to find peace, but acknowledging that these feelings are normal is the first step toward managing them.
How to Cope While Waiting for Election Results
The waiting period after casting your vote can be one of the most stressful times, but there are strategies to help reduce anxiety during this time:
1. Acknowledge Your Stress: Being mindful of your stress allows you to manage it better. Simply recognizing that you’re feeling anxious can help you take proactive steps to reduce it. A few deep breaths can go a long way in calming your mind and body.
One effective method is to focus on your breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths can calm both your body and mind. Shallow, rapid breaths often trigger anxiety, but purposeful, deep breathing helps counteract this. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, pause, and take a few deep breaths to reset. (How to practice deep breathing + breathing tips)
2. Focus on What You Can Control: One of the main sources of election anxiety is the feeling of helplessness. However, you have control over one of the most important aspects of the election: your vote. Once you’ve cast your ballot, recognize that your role is done, and focus on what you can control in your day-to-day life.
3. Practice Acceptance: Everyone has the right to their opinions, and it’s important to remember that differing views are part of a healthy democracy. Keeping this in mind can help you remain respectful and reduce unnecessary stress. Avoid engaging in divisive debates or letting other people’s opinions affect your mental state.
What If The Person You Voted for Doesn’t Win?
It’s natural to feel disappointed or even upset if the election outcome doesn’t align with your hopes. However, it’s essential to adopt a “one day at a time” mindset. Our political system moves slowly, and drastic changes rarely happen overnight. Life will continue, and it’s crucial to keep perspective.
If your anxiety or stress becomes overwhelming to the point where it’s affecting your daily functioning, seeking professional help can be incredibly beneficial. Therapists are trained to provide evidence-based tools and strategies to help you navigate stressful situations like these.
Remember, it’s okay to seek support. Mental health professionals can help you find effective ways to cope with anxiety and stress. Click here to get in touch with us.
For additional expert insights, watch Susan Harrington as she discusses practical ways to manage election anxiety and stress on KLFY-TV.
WATCH: Susan Harrington Discusses “Ways to Cope with Election Anxiety/Election Stress” on KLFY-TV
