Managing Post-Election Anxiety

The election process can be a stressful one for everyone, and if you find that you are dealing with unwanted anxiety, stress, or depression, even after the election has passed, it might be time to take action. Here are some tips on how to prioritize your mental health moving forward:

• Minimize Screen Time: Chances are, both your TV and social media channels have been taken over by this election craze. Turn off your computer and back away. Find a book off the New York Times bestseller list, start doing crossword puzzles, go for a run, or catch up with a friend. Spend some time focusing on activities in your life that ordinarily make you feel more at peace.
• Avoid Political Arguments: It may be tempting to weigh in on an political remark made by a coworker or family member, but it’s not likely that the interaction will leave you feeling any better. Instead, excuse yourself from the conversation or direct it in a less contentious direction. And remember, set ground rules to keep political talk out of the dining room on Thanksgiving.
• Look out for Feelings of Depression and Anxiety: While some stress is normal, if symptoms like worry, dread, or hopelessness are impacting the quality of your daily life, it might be a good idea to take a mental health screening and seek out help from a trained mental health professional to see if you may be experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, which is common, but treatable.

This election has brought up a number of important social topics for discussion, albeit some difficult and potentially triggering ones. Make sure you advocate for yourself and your mental health. Seeking out treatment can have a huge impact on your overall wellbeing and quality of life.