Coping with Election Anxiety

As we approach the upcoming elections, many individuals may experience heightened feelings of anxiety related to potential outcomes. Whether you are deeply invested in the election or simply concerned about the political climate, it is important to recognize and address these feelings. This blog post will provide insights on how to prepare for unwanted election outcomes, helping you manage election anxiety.

Understanding Election Anxiety

Election anxiety is a common emotional response during election seasons, characterized by worry about the implications of election results. According to Keng et al. (2019), anxiety can arise from uncertainty about the future, feelings of helplessness, and concern for social and political change. These feelings can become particularly acute when individuals fear that their preferred candidates or policies may not prevail, and that such an outcome would compromise their rights and safety.

Strategies for Coping with Election Anxiety

1. Stay Informed, but Set Limits
   It’s crucial to stay informed about the election and its candidates. However, excessive media consumption can exacerbate anxiety. Designate specific times for checking news updates and social media to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

2. Engage in Self-Care
   Prioritize self-care practices that promote mental well-being. This may include regular exercise, healthy eating, mindfulness practices, and engaging in hobbies that bring joy. According to the American Psychological Association (2020), these activities can help reduce anxiety and improve overall emotional health.

3. Connect with Supportive Communities
   Discussing your feelings with trusted friends or family members can alleviate anxiety. Engaging with communities, both online and offline, can provide a sense of belonging and support. Sharing your concerns with others who understand can help normalize your feelings and provide comfort.

4. Focus on What You Can Control
   Concentrate on actions that are within your control, such as participating in the election process, or engaging in civic discussions. This proactive approach can empower you and diminish feelings of helplessness (Schwartz et al., 2020).

5. Prepare for Various Outcomes
   Mentally rehearsing how you will respond to different election outcomes can lessen anxiety. Consider writing down your thoughts or discussing your plans with someone. This strategy can create a sense of preparedness and reduce fear of the unknown.

Conclusion

Elections may bring about significant emotional responses, including election anxiety. By employing strategies to manage these feelings, you can navigate this period with greater resilience and clarity. Remember, it’s normal to feel anxious during elections, especially high-stakes elections, and seeking support from mental health professionals can provide additional tools to cope effectively. By understanding and preparing for the emotional complexities that elections can bring, you can foster a healthier mindset and approach to civic engagement.

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References

American Psychological Association. (2020). Stress in America: A national mental health crisis. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/10/stress-mental-health-crisis

Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2019). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: A review of empirical studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 33(6), 870-881. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2013.05.007

Schwartz, J. A., Mott, R., & McMahon, L. (2020). Taking control of the uncontrollable: The impact of coping strategies on anxiety in uncertain situations. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 75, 102299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.janxdis.2020.102299