Election Anxiety?

I know the last 5 years have been ‘a lot’for all of us, and this upcoming election has certainly exacerbated anxiety and stress levels – I definitely include myself in this experience. It prompted me to exam these feelings a little and connect with you all.  

You are not alone! A recent poll from the American Psychological Association found that 69% of people are finding this election a significant source of stress.

Uncertainty & Anxiety – the connection

We all know from our experiences during COVID that uncertainty can trigger anxiety. Our brains are wired to seek predictability and control. When facing uncertain outcomes – like the election our brain struggles to make sense of what might happen which leads to these sensations of heightened anxiety. We may experience activated feelings of powerlessness and at times fear. The not knowing puts our minds in a state of constant alert which can be absolutely exhausting.  

Emotional Investment

We are probably deeply invested emotionally in this election. Our values and beliefs are being challenged and this intensifies the stress.  

Constant

The intense media coverage can be overwhelming and feel relentless. We live in a 24hour news cycle and are left to our own devices (pun intended!) in terms of what we consume.

Polarization & Social Conflict

The polarization that accompanies the election can obviously heighten feelings of division. Disagreements on political issues can strain relationships, making individuals feel isolated or unsupported. This sense of division can fuel anxiety, especially when it feels like there’s no common ground in sight.

Strategies for coping

1.     Limit information overload

We know this but here’s the thing – we actually need to set boundaries and then use them! Overexposure can increase and fuel our anxiety. Setting times to check the news rather than consuming constantly can help here. Also be discerning about which form of media we are consuming. Social media can be where emotional the responses escalate.

2.     Mindfulness

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for managing stress and anxiety and election time is no different. Start the morning with a slow and steady breath routine. Even 5 minutes will be incredibly helpful to the outcome of your day.

A mindfulness practice helps us to be more present - tuning in to the present moment—can help reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. Mindfulness helps redirect the mind from the "what ifs" to "what is," calming the nervous system and fostering a sense of inner stability.

3.     Routine

We know anxiety thrives in uncertainty, and routine is an antidote to chaos. Maintaining daily habits and self-care rituals gives us a sense of control. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s exercise, reading, cooking, or spending time with loved ones. These actions help create a buffer against election-related stress. *Find a nice quick 5 min meditation here.

4.     Constructive Actions

Feeling powerless in the face of uncertainty can exacerbate anxiety but one way to counteract this is by taking positive action. This could involve volunteering for causes you believe in, supporting your community, having meaningful conversations with others and of course VOTING! Taking action helps us to channel anxious energy into a sense of purpose and created feelings of empowerment.

5.     Acceptance of uncertainty.

Acceptance is a crucial part of dealing with uncertainty of any kind. We cannot control all outcomes. Working to make change where we can and letting go of what we can’t, can reduce the emotional pressure of attachment to outcome.  

Hang in there everyone. Reach out if you need further support and dialing 988 in NYC can help with care and mental health resources.

Be well,

Brogan