THE CLIMB

The election is over and many people have experienced emotions running high and uncertainty about outcomes adding to the tension. For many, election results bring intense reactions, whether from elation, frustration, or disillusionment. When the results don’t align with one’s values or hopes, feelings of stress, anger, and disappointment are common. Some people even experience what’s been called “election results distress,” a response that can feel similar to acute stress disorder or heightened anxiety, especially when dealing with outcomes that feel unexpected or difficult to accept. Understanding why these emotions arise and how to navigate them can help us cope with the fallout in healthier, more productive ways.

Election Results and the Effects of Acute Stress

While “acute stress disorder” is typically related to trauma, the strong reactions that follow election results can mimic some aspects of this experience. Acute stress disorder is characterized by feelings of helplessness, shock, and a sense of being overwhelmed, and these reactions can certainly arise from distress over election outcomes. When faced with a reality that feels beyond one’s control, individuals can experience symptoms such as irritability, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and physical signs of anxiety, like an increased heart rate or muscle tension. For some, these symptoms can linger and even lead to a more prolonged period of stress.

Why Election Results Trigger Anxiety and Anger

Elections touch on issues of personal values, identity, and future aspirations, which makes the stakes feel incredibly high. When a favored candidate or policy doesn’t succeed, it can feel like a personal loss, fueling frustration or anger, often directed at the results or even at those with opposing views. When the outcome feels starkly different from one’s hopes, feelings of anxiety can also arise, especially if there’s a sense of uncertainty about the future. Recognizing these responses as a normal part of processing complex emotions can help us accept our reactions and find a way to move forward more peacefully.

Coping Skills for Managing Election Results Distress

If you’re feeling the effects of election results distress, know that there are practical ways to reduce stress and regain a sense of peace. Here are several strategies that can help you manage the symptoms of distress and regain emotional balance:

1. Take Long Walks
   • Physical activity, especially in nature, can have a profound impact on mood and stress levels. Long walks offer a chance to decompress, process emotions, and release tension. Movement helps to reduce anxiety and promotes a release of endorphins, improving mood naturally. Walking also provides an opportunity to clear your head and gain perspective, especially when the results feel hard to accept.
2. Try Yoga or Gentle Stretching
   • Yoga is an excellent way to reconnect with your body and calm your mind. By focusing on breathing and movement, yoga helps to ground you in the present and relax both physically and mentally. Yoga has been shown to reduce stress hormones and enhance mood, making it a beneficial practice for times of emotional strain.
3. Journal Your Thoughts and Feelings
   • Writing can be a powerful way to explore and understand your emotions. Journaling allows you to express your thoughts openly without judgment, giving you a safe space to process anger, sadness, or frustration. Putting your feelings on paper can often reveal insights, clarify your emotions, and create a sense of relief. Try writing about what you’re feeling, why these emotions are arising, and any constructive steps you might take moving forward.
4. Limit Media Consumption
   • The constant stream of news can exacerbate feelings of distress and keep you trapped in a cycle of negativity. Consider setting boundaries with media, limiting your exposure to election-related content, and focusing on activities that uplift you. Spending too much time scrolling through news or social media can keep emotions raw, so taking a break can provide the mental space needed to regain balance and perspective.
5. Shift Your Focus Toward Positive Action
   • When emotions run high, it can be helpful to channel energy into constructive actions. Ask yourself what small steps you can take to support causes that matter to you or make a positive impact within your community. Redirecting your focus toward positive actions can provide a sense of purpose and empowerment, reinforcing the idea that change is possible, even if it happens one small step at a time.
6. Practice Acceptance
   • One of the most powerful steps to cope with any difficult situation is acceptance. Accepting reality as it is doesn’t mean giving up on your beliefs or aspirations; it simply means letting go of the need to control what you cannot change. By practicing acceptance, you free yourself from the cycle of rumination and frustration. You can do this through mindfulness practices, deep breathing, or simply reminding yourself to let go of what’s out of your hands. Acceptance helps foster resilience, allowing you to move forward in a healthy, balanced way.

Looking Forward: Building Resilience After Election Results

It’s important to remember that feeling distress after an election is normal, especially when the results feel personal. It can take time to fully process the outcome, but each of these coping strategies can help ease the way, providing relief and a sense of control. As we accept what we cannot change and focus on what we can, we build resilience that helps us face future challenges with more calm and confidence.

If election results distress continues to feel overwhelming, consider seeking support from a counselor. Therapy can provide guidance in developing coping skills tailored to your needs, while offering a safe space to explore and understand your feelings. You don’t have to handle difficult emotions alone—professional support can make a difference, helping you find peace and balance, regardless of life’s unpredictable outcomes.

In times of collective stress, being kind to ourselves and practicing patience is vital. This approach not only helps us heal but also prepares us to handle future challenges with greater resilience. As we take time to care for our mental health, we equip ourselves to navigate life’s ups and downs with clarity and a renewed sense of hope.

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