Protecting Your Mental Health During Election Season: A Therapist’s Guide

Feeling anxious about the upcoming election? You're not alone. According to a recent poll by the American Psychiatric Association, nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents reported feeling anxious about the election. With so much at stake, it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain.

Election season often brings with it a flurry of activity, opinions, and emotions. For many, it’s a time of heightened stress and anxiety, as political discussions become more intense and divisive. As a therapist (and women, mom and a fellow human experiencing this as well), I want to offer some strategies to help you safeguard your mental health during this period.

1. Limit Your Exposure-ish

In today’s digital age, we’re constantly bombarded with news and opinions, especially during THIS election season. While staying informed is important, overexposure can lead to increased anxiety and stress. Try setting specific times for checking news updates and social media, and consider using apps or tools to help manage your online time. This can help prevent information overload and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Find and enjoy non-election content as well! Cue the funny memes, reels and videos about whatever sparks joy! Do you have any accounts that are guaranteed to make you smile and break you out of the election-content vortex? Maybe it’s content about gardening, parenting, cats or your favorite reality tv shows (looking at you my fellow Bravoholics).

2. Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is a term that is thrown around loosely and often used inaccurately these days. We are not just taking bubble baths and spa days here. Since there isn’t another word to capture self-care other than self-care, I’ll draw on the incredible work of Dr. Pooja Lakshmin, a well-known psychiatrist and advocate for mental health. In her book, Real Self-Care, Dr. Lakshmin emphasizes that self-care is more than just occasional pampering or indulgent activities. Rather, it is the practice of taking intentional actions to protect and improve one's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This involves setting boundaries, prioritizing your needs, and engaging in activities that replenish and sustain your energy and health.

In her view, self-care is integral to maintaining balance and resilience, especially in high-stress environments (ie Elections) and is not a luxury but a necessary aspect of living a healthy and fulfilling life.

Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. This could include exercise, meditation, reading, or spending quality time with loved ones. By making your needs a priority, you can maintain your resilience and emotional balance.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

Mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques can be incredibly effective in managing anxiety. Incorporate practices such as deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, or yoga into your daily or weekly routine. These techniques can help you stay grounded and manage stress more effectively.

Want some election specific resources? Check out Headspace where they have some great resources and meditations.

4. Set Boundaries as Needed

Political discussions can sometimes become heated and overwhelming. It’s perfectly okay to set boundaries with friends, family, or colleagues about discussing politics. Let others know if you’d prefer to avoid certain topics, and prioritize conversations that are supportive and respectful.

5. Engage in Positive Activities

Find activities that bring you joy and help you unwind, separate from politics and political discussions. Whether it’s a hobby, a creative project, or spending time in nature, engaging in positive activities can help shift your focus and improve your overall mood and mental health.

6. Connect with Supportive Individuals

Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand your need for a balanced approach. Having a network of people who offer encouragement and a listening ear can make a significant difference in managing stress.

7. Take Positive Action

Participating in positive actions, such as volunteering or community organizing, can provide a sense of purpose and connection. Engaging in activities that contribute to positive change can also help you feel more empowered and less stressed.

8. Seek Professional Support

If you find that the election season is significantly impacting your mental health, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and maintain your well-being.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by election stress, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a therapist specializing in mental health and anxiety management, I'm here to offer personalized support and strategies tailored to your needs. 🌟