Prioritizing Your Mental Health Before the Election
As election season approaches, it’s hard to ignore the flood of news, opinions, debates, and discussions that surround us. The intensity of a national election can bring out strong emotions, from hope and excitement to anxiety and frustration. At Amy Robbins Counseling, we understand how crucial it is to care for your mental health, especially in the weeks and months leading up to such an event.
The impact of a national election is significant. People often feel deeply about the future of the country, policies that affect their daily lives, and the wellbeing of their communities. These strong emotions, coupled with the pressure of staying informed and involved, can easily lead to feelings of overwhelm. In this post, we’ll offer practical tips to help you maintain your mental health in the midst of election-related stress.
1. Limit Your News Consumption
It’s natural to want to stay informed about what’s happening in the political sphere, but the 24/7 news cycle can be overwhelming. Constant exposure to political debates and negative headlines can take a toll on your mental well-being. Consider setting boundaries around your media consumption.
You might decide to check the news once or twice a day, or designate specific times to catch up. Be selective about the sources you choose—seek out balanced, fact-based reporting to reduce unnecessary stress and misinformation.
Remember, it’s okay to step away from the news and give your mind a break. In fact, it’s necessary.
2. Focus on What You Can Control
A common source of stress during elections is feeling powerless over the outcome. While it’s true that no single person can control the entire political landscape, focusing on what you can do is empowering.
Consider actions like registering to vote, supporting candidates or causes you believe in, or engaging in respectful, meaningful conversations with others. By taking small, manageable steps, you’ll regain a sense of control and purpose.
3. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can be a powerful tool in navigating the emotional highs and lows of election season. Mindfulness practices—like deep breathing, meditation, and grounding exercises—can help you stay present and calm when the political climate feels overwhelming.
Even short, simple mindfulness exercises can have a big impact. Try starting your day with a five-minute meditation or practicing mindful breathing when you feel anxious or agitated by the news. This can help create a sense of mental clarity and emotional resilience, no matter what’s happening around you.
4. Take Breaks from Social Media
Social media can often amplify the stress and polarization surrounding elections. Heated debates, sensationalized headlines, and negative comments can quickly lead to burnout. Consider taking regular breaks from social media to recharge.
You might also try curating your feed to focus on positive, supportive content. Unfollowing or muting accounts that contribute to your stress can be a helpful step in creating a healthier online environment for yourself.
5. Seek Support When Needed
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of an election season. Talk to trusted friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings. Group therapy can be a great option for discussing these emotions in a supportive and understanding environment.
At Amy Robbins Counseling, we’re here to provide a safe space where you can express your concerns, manage stress, and build resilience. Whether through individual or group sessions, our therapists can help you navigate the complexities of pre-election stress.
Final Thoughts
Elections are a time of heightened emotion and uncertainty, but by prioritizing your mental health, you can stay grounded and calm. Remember to take breaks from the media, focus on what you can control, practice mindfulness, and seek support when you need it.
If you’d like more guidance on managing stress during election season, feel free to reach out to us at Amy Robbins Counseling. We’re here to help.
Thank you to Weezie Haley for this blog!
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