THE CLIMB

Introduction

Elections can be a highly stressful period for many people. With news updates, social media debates, and constant coverage of political issues, anxiety can build as we anticipate what the future may hold. When the stakes feel high and outcomes uncertain, it’s natural to feel uneasy. In fact, the American Psychological Association notes that around 68% of Americans experience heightened stress during elections.

The good news is that election season anxiety is normal, and there are practical strategies for managing it. This post will explore five simple ways to calm election-related anxiety, helping you to find peace even during uncertain times.

Understanding Election Season Anxiety

Anxiety thrives in uncertainty, and elections are a prime example of uncertain times. The combination of polarized conversations, concerns about the future, and 24-hour news coverage fuels stress and worry. Feeling uneasy doesn’t mean you’re overreacting; it’s simply a natural response to the unpredictable. However, learning to calm this anxiety can bring clarity and empower you to make decisions calmly and thoughtfully.

Five Practical Ways to Calm Election Anxiety

1. Limit News Consumption

In our digital world, we have constant access to updates, breaking news, and discussions that can feed our anxiety. Setting a boundary around your news consumption can help you step back from the information overload and create a sense of peace. This doesn’t mean ignoring what’s happening, but rather setting limits on how often you check the news or social media.

Try this: Set a designated time each day, maybe 15-20 minutes, to check the news. Outside of that time, try focusing on other activities or taking a break from screens altogether. This creates a space for your mind to unwind and reduces the “always-on” feeling.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Deep Breathing

Mindfulness techniques can be an effective way to ground yourself when you feel overwhelmed. Deep breathing exercises, in particular, activate the body’s relaxation response, helping to counteract the stress response triggered by anxiety. When practiced regularly, mindfulness can make it easier to stay calm in the face of uncertainty.

Try this: Practice a simple breathing exercise. Inhale slowly through your nose for four counts, hold for a count of four, and then exhale through your mouth for four counts. Repeat this for a few minutes whenever you start to feel overwhelmed.

Another mindfulness technique involves grounding yourself by noticing five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This exercise helps keep you in the present moment.

3. Channel Your Energy into Positive Actions

Election season is a great time to engage in activities that help you feel empowered and make a difference. Volunteering, working for causes you believe in, or spending time connecting with friends and family can all bring a sense of purpose and alleviate feelings of helplessness.

Try this: Consider volunteering with a community organization, participating in a local event, or helping out in your neighborhood. Connecting with others over shared values and goals can reduce anxiety, boost your mood, and help you feel more connected.

4. Focus on Self-Care and Routine

Maintaining a regular self-care routine can provide a sense of stability amid the ups and downs of election season. When we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to handle stress and anxiety. Basic self-care can include anything that supports your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Try this: Make sure to prioritize enough sleep, a balanced diet, and exercise. Staying physically active is particularly effective for reducing anxiety. Activities like walking, yoga, or jogging help to release tension and lift your mood. Don’t overlook hobbies and leisure activities; they offer a healthy distraction and help balance out intense moments with relaxation and joy.

5. Connect with Supportive People

Social connections play a crucial role in managing anxiety. Having people you trust who you can talk to about your feelings can be a tremendous comfort. Whether it’s family, friends, or a therapist, sharing your worries can lighten the emotional load and offer fresh perspectives.

Try this: Reach out to someone you trust when anxiety feels overwhelming. You might be surprised at how many others are experiencing the same concerns. Choose people who are open to discussing your concerns in a balanced way, without intensifying the negative emotions. If conversations become too heated or uncomfortable, consider setting boundaries around political discussions to protect your mental well-being.

Taking Charge of Your Anxiety

Election season comes and goes, but your mental health is always important. Once you’ve taken time to learn about candidates and issues, make your decision about who you want to vote for and then consider taking a break from election news. Turning off the news and creating a buffer between you and the 24-hour election cycle can greatly reduce anxiety. Focus on the things within your control, like voting and supporting causes close to your heart.

Let this be an opportunity to practice resilience and mindful engagement. Remember that caring for yourself—mentally, emotionally, and physically—can make you stronger and better able to manage stressful situations, not only during election season but at any time.

Take a Break for Your Mental Health

This election season, give yourself permission to tune out when needed. After deciding who you want to vote for, turn off the news and focus on the activities and people who bring you peace. Your mental well-being matters, and creating space for calm is one of the best ways to care for yourself during uncertain times.

At The Pursuit, a group of experienced therapists have come together to offer best-in-class counseling services. We prioritize clinical theory, non-judgmental approaches, and effective interventions, treatment plans, and coping skills. We have therapists who specialize in different areas and we strive to find the best match for your unique needs. Are you ready to take the first step in your Pursuit towards a happier, healthier you? We invite you to book your free 20-minute consultation with one of our skilled therapists. Don’t wait; it’s time to invest in your well-being. Simply Book Now to start your Pursuit toward personal growth and positive change today. Keep reading if you want to learn more about Anxiety Therapy.