Coping with Political Stress This Election Season

As the election looms, many people feel a familiar sense of tension creeping in. The constant news coverage, debates, and high stakes can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and powerless. Political stress, also called election anxiety, is real, and it can take a serious toll on your mental health. But the good news is, there are ways to stay grounded and manage the emotional rollercoaster of election season.

Why Do Elections Trigger Anxiety?

Elections represent change, and change can feel destabilizing, especially when so much is at stake. For many, politics touches on deeply personal values, social justice concerns, or their own sense of safety and security. The intense emotions tied to these issues can quickly morph into stress, especially when the future seems uncertain.

 When we feel that our voice might not be enough to sway the outcome, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of helplessness, leading to anxiety. Social media, round-the-clock news, and heated discussions with friends or family can also heighten our emotional response, making it hard to escape.

 5 Ways to Cope with Political Stress

1. Limit Your News and Social Media Intake

It’s tempting to stay updated on every political development, but this can feed into a constant state of stress. Set specific times to check the news or social media, and be mindful of how much time you're spending on it. Take regular breaks to disconnect from the influx of information.

Tip: Try a "news fast" for one or two days a week to give your brain time to recover from information and emotion overload.

 2. Set Boundaries in Political Conversations

Political debates can quickly escalate and turn emotional, especially with people close to us. If you're feeling overwhelmed by discussions, it’s okay to say, "I’d rather not talk about politics right now." Setting boundaries helps protect your mental health and prevents unnecessary conflict.

Tip: Have a go-to response prepared, like "I’m focusing on self-care today, so I’d rather not engage in political talk."

3. Focus on What You Can Control

Anxiety thrives on feelings of helplessness. Remind yourself that while you may not have control over the entire political landscape, you *do* have control over your own actions. Whether it’s voting, volunteering, or staying informed - focus on the small, impactful things you can do.

Tip: Make a list of ways you can engage meaningfully, such as volunteering for causes you care about or educating others on issues.

4. Engage in Stress-Reducing Activities

It’s important to actively counterbalance political stress with activities that calm your nervous system. Physical activity, mindfulness practices like meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and deep breathing exercises can help your body release tension and ground your mind.

Tip: Try a 5-minute mindfulness exercise before or after watching the news. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on your body to bring yourself back to the present moment.

5. Create a Support System

Surround yourself with people who understand what you’re going through. Whether it's a friend or a therapist, talking about your feelings with a trusted person can help you process anxiety in a healthy way. If certain friends or family members trigger your stress, consider temporarily limiting interactions with them during election season.

Tip: Join or create a group of like-minded individuals focused on positive action or stress relief, such as a meditation group or volunteer network.

Long-Term Strategies for Managing Political Stress

If you find yourself consistently overwhelmed by political anxiety, it might be worth reflecting on how you engage with the news and politics long-term. Some people benefit from regular mindfulness practices, while others choose to take extended breaks from the news to reset. Therapy can also be an effective way to explore the deeper roots of political stress and find personalized coping strategies.

Final Thoughts: Grounding Yourself During Uncertain Times

Election anxiety can feel all-consuming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. By setting boundaries, limiting your news intake, and focusing on what you can control, you can manage the stress and stay grounded during these uncertain times. Remember, protecting your mental health is a priority—especially in a world that can feel chaotic.

If political stress is overwhelming you, consider reaching out for support. Therapy can provide a safe space to process your emotions and develop a personalized plan for staying grounded in the face of anxiety.