It’s here. The 2024 Presidential Election Day is here in the United States. The last few weeks have been a constant reminder of how contentious and polarized this election may be. Regardless of where you are on the political spectrum, you may be feeling a lot of emotion, from anxiety, fear, and stress to excitement and anticipation. The stakes may feel high, and those feelings can quickly become overwhelming.
Whether actively participating in the political process or trying to keep some distance, I hope these strategies help you find balance, focus on what you can control, and navigate the day with some sense of groundedness.
As we head into Election Day and the days after…..
Set your intentions:
Ask yourself what you hope for and what you can realistically expect from Election Day and the days after. Setting intentions—like focusing on staying calm, being kind to yourself, or finding moments of connection with loved ones—can anchor you throughout the day and weeks to come.
Remember we are all in this together:
The reality is, our country is more polarized than ever, and this divide can impact our well-being in profound ways. Constant exposure to opposing viewpoints and misinformation, heightened by social media and nonstop news, can increase stress, anxiety, and even feelings of isolation.
This division doesn’t just exist on a national level; it can create tension in our relationships with friends, family, and coworkers, making it feel as though we’re separated into “us” and “them.” But remembering that we all share the desire for a better future can help bridge that gap.
- When faced with different opinions, try to approach conversations with curiosity rather than judgment.
- Focus on shared values, like community and kindness, which remind us that, at the end of the day, we are all connected.
- Take breaks from social media, limit political conversations if they become too intense, and make time for activities that bring you back to a sense of unity with others, regardless of beliefs.
- Small acts of empathy and openness can help reduce the stress of polarization and remind us that, despite our differences, we’re all in this together.
Mindfulness as an antidote to anxiety and fear:
Practicing mindfulness can calm fear and anxiety, helping our nervous system to relax. This shift can make it easier to approach difficult conversations and differing opinions with a more open and balanced perspective.
Check out these articles for specific ideas for mindfulness practices that can help today and beyond:
Staying Centered on Election Day
It’s finally here – Election Day. A day that seemed far away until this week, at least for me. For many of us, emotions may be at their peak. To support yourself during this time, consider these self-care strategies:
Take Breaks from the News:
Try to avoid staying on your phone or TV throughout the day. I know this may be hard to do, but constant exposure can lead to overwhelm, anxiety, and even anger and confusion. Set specific times to check updates, and in between, focus on things that help you feel calm and in control.
Remember that taking breaks doesn’t mean you’re not informed; it means you’re choosing to care for your well-being. Which we need if we are to create change, regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum.
Engage in Positive Activities:
Make time for something you enjoy, whether it’s cooking, listening to music, or going for a walk. Doing something fulfilling can give you a needed mental break and a sense of normalcy in the midst of the day’s uncertainty.
Reach Out for Connection:
Election Day can feel isolating, especially if you’re anxious about the results. Checking in with a friend or loved one can help you feel grounded and supported. Share your feelings, but also be mindful of discussing boundaries—acknowledge if you need a break from political talk and respect if others feel the same.
Coping with Post-Election Uncertainty
Given how close the 2024 presidential race is, there is a potential that we will not know clear results immediately. As we learn the results, we may face uncertainty about how to move forward. The following practices can help you process your feelings and build resilience in the days and weeks that follow.
Give Yourself Time to Process:
It’s normal to feel a range of emotions after Election Day, from relief to disappointment to uncertainty. Allow yourself to sit with those feelings instead of rushing to move on. Journaling, talking with trusted friends, or reflecting quietly can help you process in a way that feels supportive. Mindfulness practices can also give space to reflect and promote groundedness.
Limit Post-Election Media:
Just as during Election Day, try not to get swept into the continuous news cycle. Consider scheduling a specific time to check for updates rather than scrolling endlessly. This can protect you from feeling overwhelmed and prevent information overload.
Reconnect with Your Values:
Focus on what brings you meaning and purpose, whether that’s family, creativity, spirituality, or community. Returning to these core values can help you feel grounded even if the world around you feels uncertain. Remember, self-care during this time isn’t about disengaging; it’s about finding resilience so you can move forward with clarity and strength.
Final Thoughts
Election seasons can be stressful…especially this one. But you don’t have to go through it alone or unsupported. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, therapy can be a valuable resource, offering a safe space to explore these emotions, develop coping strategies, and gain the support you need to navigate whatever comes next. We are all in this together and are here to support you.
About the Author
Sarah Long, PsyD, LCP, CEDS
Dr. Sarah Long is a gifted psychologist with 16+ years of experience helping people to heal from the impacts of traumatic events and recover from eating disorders. Dr. Long leads the Eating Disorder team at Catalyst, provides EMDR, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. Dr. Long also uses her expertise in Collaborative Therapeutic Assessment to evaluate complex Eating Disorder cases and provide guidance for treatment.
Interested in Learning More?
If you are interested in connecting with support during uncertain times, our specialized team is here to help. You are not alone. Call 720-675-7123 or contact us below.
