Last Minute Tips for Managing Election Anxiety

There is an incredible amount of anxiety surrounding a presidential election, especially when the stakes are seemingly so high. No matter how you vote, everyone seems to be experiencing heightened stress right now. It can be exciting when like-minded people feel hopeful together or commiserate about the opponent, but that can lead to overwhelm very quickly. So how can we manage these anxious feelings specific to this election?

Exercise 

Exercise is undoubtedly connected to calming stressful feelings and thoughts. Moving the body is linked to all sorts of positive outcomes, but particularly for this election, perhaps it is most linked to our sense of control. We really like feeling in control, and elections can undermine that. But you can control going for a walk, or getting a workout in. It feels productive, even when bigger feelings of fear and hopelessness are present.

Stay Off/Limit Social Media 

This is probably something that we should all do more of, but getting lost down a rabbit hole of memes will not ease your anxiety or make the time pass by more quickly. While you're awaiting the results, put your phone on do not disturb. Those that need you will call you. Setting boundaries with yourself is one of the best self care moves you can make. Even if you only check in once/hour, this can cut down on overall anxiety. Think about it this way today and in general; use social media for information, not for validation.

Model Calm Interactions

How will you wish you had behaved in this moment? Maybe you and your partner have different political viewpoints. Maybe you have young children around that are watching your every move and maybe even feeling responsible for your feelings. Show them how to behave. Will making this stinging post on social media make me feel better? Will lashing out at a family member be something I want to be remembered by? Even if you live alone, model to yourself the adult you want to be; today and always!