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Last-minute tips to deal with increased stress and anxiety during the US presidential elections, according to experts
For most people in America today, the stress and anxiety of the presidential election is palpable and sometimes unbearable. According to statistics, more than 73 percent of Americans say they are feeling stressed about the election. Experts have provided several suggestions that you can follow to overcome the negative emotions running in the political environment and help you find some common ground. Read on to find out what they are
Mental health experts say that this high-risk election has put the general public under a lot of pressure due to the tactics used by political parties during the election campaign.
A growing number of Americans say they are feeling stressed and anxious about the presidential election as tensions rise in the final countdown to Election Day. Voters across states have expressed bewilderment and anger as the campaigns of Republican and Democrat candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris ended.
According to mental health experts, this high-risk election has put the general public under a lot of pressure due to the tactics used by political parties while campaigning for their candidates. And so, for people experiencing stress and anxiety there is a need to keep these under control through simple tips that they can follow:
Exercise
While exercise and workouts are generally good for both physical and mental health, experts agree that during stressful times, engaging in physical activities can help you calm down.
According to psychologists, do not neglect your daily self-care routine which should include walking, jogging, cycling or swimming in addition to your daily work or household chores. These activities not only make you active but are also enjoyable for your brain.
maintain boundaries
Although political discussions can be destructive to relationships, it doesnât have to get to that point. Experts say try setting some boundaries for your mental health and well-being.
Have enjoyable discussions with an open mind without constantly criticizing the other person. Also, it is important to hear the otherâs perspective just as you want them to understand yours. Also, ignore what is said during the discussion and do not take it to heart.
Avoid or limit social media
Social media tends to create opinions â which when not heard or understood can lead to a lot of stress, anxiety, depression and even violent urges.
And so, according to experts, news or opinions from the internet should be used only for obtaining information and not for verification. Donât test your identity or your mental health based on whatâs playing on television or your phone screening.
Doctors are warning people about doomscrolling â spending excessive time reading large amounts of news, especially negative news, on the web and social media â which easily promotes negativity. Therefore, it is important to set timers on social media apps to limit doomscrolling and set limits on phone notifications.
Whenever you are with friends or eating at the dining table, keep your phone on silent mode or away from you, as it can distract you.
avoid talking politics
Although this is one of the best ways to educate yourself on the topic, discussing politics everywhere should be avoided. At election time, stressful conversations take over â increasing stress and anxiety levels.
Election stress has increased among children
According to the data, it is not only adults who are feeling election-related anxiety, but also those who are not actively participating in their voting. Experts say that children also become sad after seeing their parents.
âParents should discuss election season emotions with their children,â Dr. Matt Edelstein, a clinical psychologist at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, told CBS News. âAcknowledge their stress because it validates their feelings and helps them connect what theyâre feeling to whatâs really happening in the world,â she said. Edelstein also suggests managing excessive media exposure.
âThe important thing is that we explain our emotions to our children and model how we can have emotions and still remain controlled and rational,â she said.
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