Tips for Managing Post-Election Stress
Calling 2020 a difficult year is an understatement. Managing the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic has been compounded by natural disasters and national social justice issues. Now, as the U.S. election season comes to a close, many individuals are feeling excess strain and anxiety. In fact, according to a report by the American Psychological Association, approximately 70% of American adults have said the 2020 election has been a major stressor for them.
Here are suggestions to help you navigate this time of divisive politics and to manage post-election stress:
Reset Your Response – When you notice yourself getting upset during political discussions or beginning to cut ties with loved ones over their political views – it’s time to reset and come up with a more measured, reasonable response. Opinions grow from personal experiences and recognizing that can make it easier to feel empathy instead of anger and frustration.
Agree to Disagree – It is possible to care about someone and still have political differences. Compassion and acceptance are both important in maintaining positive relationships. If you can maintain respect for the person while disliking their opinions, you can establish “off-limit” topics, steer clear of arguments and focus on what you do enjoy about each other.
Set Boundaries – For your own wellbeing, you can say, “not interested” when confronted with an unwanted topic of discussion and walk away. Having a calm, measured response can be a model for others to react appropriately. Not everyone will recognize or respect boundaries, however, so give yourself permission to avoid interacting with difficult people.
Limit Your Media Exposure – It’s a good thing to care about what is going on in the world and your community. However, the 24-hour news cycle has become pervasive. Limit yourself to checking the news for 10 to 20 minutes in the morning and evening only. Unsubscribe to political pages on your social media accounts and resist the urge to click on content that is politically charged. Reducing exposure and focusing on healthy alternatives, such as exercise or journaling, can quickly improve your mental health.
Take Care of Yourself – It’s important to find experiences that allow you to escape and focus on yourself. Connecting with the people and activities that make you happy can improve your mental and physical health, helping you cope with negativity and conflict more effectively. Try going on a walk, reading a book, practicing mediation, spending time with a friend or enjoying favorite hobbies.
