Mind Over Media: Managing Election Stress for Mental Health

04 Nov Mind Over Media: Managing Election Stress for Mental Health

Feeling ambivalent, anxious, frustrated, or even scared about the election? In the current political climate, it has become increasingly easy to be overwhelmed. With constant news updates, debates, and social media discussions, election anxiety is a very real and valid experience.

So what, exactly, is Election Anxiety?

Election anxiety refers to the stress and apprehension individuals may experience when thinking about political events, processes, situations, or outcomes in relation to an election of a political figure. It can manifest as feelings of uncertainty, fear, and even hopelessness, which can feel pervasive, take away one’s felt sense of agency, and often affect mental health, disrupt sleep, and impact overall daily functioning.

Several factors contribute to election anxiety:

1. Media Overload: With 24/7 news cycles and social media platforms bombarding information, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The continuous exposure to conflicting opinions and alarming headlines can elevate stress levels. In a recent interview, Yuval Noah Harari discusses at length how news bullets and social media algorithms are curated to engage the consumer, which often means the violent, volatile, and fear-inducing content is prioritized. It grabs our attention! That fear response system in our body is primed to keep us safe, how savvy!
2. Fear of the Unknown: Uncertainty about election outcomes and their implications can heighten anxiety, especially when issues directly impact personal values, access to resources, and future plans.
3. Social Divisiveness: Political discussions can often lead to tension and conflict among friends and family, causing additional stress and strain on relationships.
4. Communication Deficits: As a society, we have lost the art of discourse and being able to agree to disagree and still hold love, care, and concern for those on opposing sides. It is not often safe to discuss personal viewpoints with others, and can lead to being dismissed, diminished, or even attacked.

Coping Strategies

Managing election anxiety requires intentional practices and strategies. Here are some practical tips:

1. Limit News Intake: Set specific times to check the news and avoid constant updates. Consider turning off notifications and curating your social media feeds to reduce exposure to distressing content.
2. Mindfully Consume: Intentionally decide what type of content you watch, view, and share, as well as, how often.
3. Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize activities that nourish your mind and body. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, or hobbies, ensure you dedicate time to unwind and recharge.
4. Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals for support. Sharing your feelings can provide relief and help you gain perspective.

Community Resilience

Building community resilience is crucial during challenging times:

• Stay Connected: Engage with community groups or online forums that promote positive discussions and mutual support.

• Communicate and Listen: Even if you don’t agree, take a moment to ground yourself in the present and hear what your friend, family, or neighbor has to say. Listen for the underlying worries and what they are hoping for. Try not to get stuck on the person they are supporting, or the particular party lines they might share.
• Foster Empathy: Approach conversations with kindness and understanding, recognizing that others may also be experiencing anxiety. Encourage dialogue that focuses on common values rather than division.

• Support Each Other: Offer a listening ear or words of encouragement to those around you. Acts of kindness can strengthen community bonds and uplift collective spirits, even if you have differing ideologies and values.

Regardless of the outcome… This election cycle has been a daunting one. Remember that you’re not alone in your feelings. Many people, despite their political values and beliefs, are feeling nervous and uncertain. By implementing coping strategies and fostering supportive communities, you can manage your personal stress, which is what you are in control of, and navigate some of the intensity this week brings. Intentionally start a self-care routine today and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can navigate this challenging period of unknown and what’s to come, with empathy and resilience.