With a few days left until the 2024 Presidential Election, tensions run high, and feelings of anxiety, stress, and even depression are palpable across our nation. The “Great Divide” is a term many of us know all too well, and election cycles seem to bring it to the forefront, as heated conversations and strong opinions take center stage. In the days leading up to a national election, people become highly invested in their beliefs and ideals for the future, often at the expense of mental well-being—for themselves and others.
It’s no wonder so many feel the weight of this period, as we navigate the constant barrage of news, the debates with friends and family, and the friction within communities. This climate of division can make even the most optimistic individuals feel a sense of dread or “psychological fatigue,” with a pervasive concern that the outcomes will have long-lasting implications.
Why Election Anxiety Affects Us
Anxiety during election season is real, and it doesn’t just impact individuals; it spreads to entire communities. Here’s why it happens:
The Uncertainty Factor: When the future feels uncertain, our minds are conditioned to worry. With so much at stake and many aspects out of our control, people often feel as though they’re holding their breath until the final results are in.
Passionate Beliefs and Fear: Strong beliefs about what’s best for the country can create an “us vs. them” mentality, amplifying conflict. It’s natural to feel strongly, but when these convictions trigger feelings of fear, anger, or powerlessness, it can impact our psychological resilience and bring about anxiety or depression.
Social Pressure and Polarization: Social and political pressures are stronger than ever, and disagreements over opinions can strain friendships, relationships, and family bonds. For some, merely expressing their opinions can lead to feelings of isolation, worry, and sadness, especially when faced with criticism or rejection.
Media Overload: Consuming constant election coverage—whether through news or social media—can leave us feeling overwhelmed, leading to symptoms of stress, insomnia, and even burnout.
The Lingering Effects of Election Results
The impact doesn’t disappear overnight. Post-election results can bring a range of emotions—relief for some and disappointment for others. Regardless of the outcome, the aftermath often leaves lingering effects on our mental health, with many feeling emotionally spent. These residual feelings of worry or hope for change can affect our psyche, our energy, and our relationships with others.
Some individuals experience what mental health professionals call “election stress disorder”—a sense of emotional distress tied directly to political events. The need to “win” can be so powerful that when things don’t go our way, we’re left struggling with a sense of helplessness or disillusionment.
Addressing Election-Related Anxiety and Protecting Our Mental Health
Taking care of our mental health is essential in these times, and there are steps we can take to navigate this period with more balance:
Limit Media Consumption: Staying informed is important, but taking breaks from constant media and social media updates can reduce feelings of overwhelm. Set designated times to check in on the news rather than staying glued to the updates.
Pause and Reflect: Take a moment each day to breathe, process, and reflect on what’s important to you outside of politics. This “permission to pause” allows you to center yourself and remember that while these issues are significant, they do not define every aspect of our lives.
Engage in Positive Activities: Doing things that make you happy can help ease stress. Whether it’s spending time with friends, working out, or engaging in creative outlets, prioritize activities that help you recharge.
Set Boundaries for Political Discussions: Conversations with friends or family may veer into politics, but it’s okay to set limits. If a discussion is becoming too intense, politely disengage and steer the conversation to more neutral ground.
Focus on Local Action: Often, we feel powerless on a national level, but taking action locally—volunteering, supporting community efforts, or educating yourself on state and city issues—can give us a greater sense of empowerment.
Seek Professional Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with tools to manage your stress, anxiety, and overall well-being.
Practicing Kindness and Respect
Remember, elections are about expressing our beliefs and desires for our nation. But respecting differences is a fundamental part of a healthy community. By practicing kindness and respecting autonomy, we contribute to a society that can handle differences with grace and understanding. Regardless of outcome, our focus should remain on creating a sense of unity, where we acknowledge that diverse perspectives can co-exist.
In a time when the world feels split, let’s prioritize respect, mental well-being, and kindness. Our collective mental health depends on it. The day after the election, we’ll still be neighbors, friends, and family members who can either divide or unite. Let’s make a conscious choice toward unity.
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