Hey there! The elections are already approaching, and we’re being bombarded with information overload. A pivotal moment in the country’s history is coming, and it feels like nothing will be the same afterward. If you’re like me, you’re probably scrolling through social media, staying updated with the latest news, and feeling a knot in your stomach, hoping the uncertainty will end. But you’re not alone—election anxiety is totally real, especially for us young women navigating this crazy world. So let’s talk about it and find some ways to cope.
What Is Election Anxiety Anyway?
Election anxiety is that overwhelming feeling of worry and stress that creeps in as the big day approaches. It might show up as:
- Nervous Energy: You feel like you’re constantly on edge, just waiting for something to happen.
- Mood Swings: One minute you’re feeling pumped about voting, and the next, you’re down in the dumps, worrying about what the results might mean for your future.
- Social Media Overload: Scrolling through your feed can feel more like a nightmare than a source of information, with everyone sharing their opinions and concerns.
Why Do We Feel This Way?
Let’s be real: the political landscape today can feel like a minefield. With social media amplifying everything, it’s easy to feel bombarded by negative news and heated debates. Add to that the fact that many of us care deeply about issues like climate change, reproductive rights, and social justice—it’s no wonder our anxiety levels spike during election season!
Here’s a Quick Rundown of Why Election Anxiety Hits Hard:
- Polarization: We’re in a time when political opinions are starkly divided, making conversations tricky and often uncomfortable.
- Fear of Change: Elections can lead to big shifts that affect our lives, careers, and communities, which can feel pretty daunting.
- Media Madness: The constant flow of news and opinions on platforms like Twitter and Instagram can feel relentless, often leaving us feeling drained.
How to Manage Those Jitters
While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, there are ways to take back control and manage your election anxiety. Here are some tips that might help:
- Set Media Boundaries: Give yourself permission to step back. Limit your news and social media consumption to a couple of times a day, so you’re not drowning in negativity.
- Talk It Out: Don’t bottle up those feelings! Chat with friends or family who share your concerns. Having a safe space to vent can help lighten the emotional load.
- Find Your Zen: Try incorporating mindfulness practices into your routine. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or simply taking a walk, find what helps you unwind and clear your mind.
- Get Involved: Channel your feelings into action. Register to vote, volunteer for a campaign, or attend local events. Taking proactive steps can boost your confidence and help you feel empowered.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that make you happy, whether it’s binge-watching your favorite show, trying out a new recipe, or spending time with your favorite people. Your mental health matters!
- Reach Out for Help: If you find that your anxiety is becoming too much to handle, don’t hesitate to seek support. Talking to a therapist or counselor can provide you with tools to cope.
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Coping with Pre-Election Anxiety
If you or your loved ones are experiencing pre-election anxiety, try these tips to help reduce stress and tension in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election.
- Create News Boundaries: It’s important to stay informed, but it’s equally crucial to take breaks( When setting up your routine, be sure to include time limits for news, along with time for self-care to clear your mind, reset your emotions and avoid screen fatigue(j
- Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial during election season( Engaging in positive activities helps shift your focus from stressors and overall election anxiety and supports a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
- Prepare for Tough Conversations: Discussing presidential views and current events with others can lead to frustration, know your perspective and be open to hearing theirs( If the discussion starts to get heated, it’s okay to step away, do some breathing exercises or take a walk to maintain your calm.
Coping with Post-Election Anxiety
The votes are in and emotions are running high across the country. The aftermath of the post-election continues to dominate the news, and social media is abuzz.
While some may feel joyful and triumphant, others might be grappling with disappointment, fear, or confusion. If you or your loved ones are experiencing post-election anxiety, here’s how you can manage and cope with these feelings.
- Reach Out to Others: Avoid isolating yourself and share your thoughts with someone you trust.
- Keep a Journal: If talking isn’t your thing, write down your thoughts and emotions. Acknowledge and accept these emotions, giving yourself the space to process everything. Putting your feelings on paper can help you make sense of them.
- Practice Self-Care: This could mean curling up with your favorite book or show, exercising, or taking a bath. Make sure to prioritize your own well-being and attend to your needs before offering support to others.
- Just Listen: Ask open-ended questions to gain insight into others’ experiences. Acknowledge their emotions and reassure them that their feelings are valid. It’s fine if you don’t have solutions.
- Avoid Overextending Yourself: Assisting others can be overwhelming.
- Make sure to prioritize your own well-being and attend to your needs before offering support to others.
How to Talk to Your Kids About the Elections
- There Is NO Age Limit: Children of any age can be involved in election discussions. Consider their emotional maturity when determining their exposure, and begin by asking what they already know or have heard about the election.
- Be Aware: It’s important to know what your child is exposed to during the election, as they may encounter disagreements, debates, and hostility. If they show signs of stress, limit their exposure and explain why people can get upset during elections.
- Encourage Them: Encourage your children to express their feelings, so you can provide support. Teach them how to have respectful and honest dialogues as well.
- Teach Them: Teach your kids to form their own opinions by asking open-ended questions like, “What makes you think that?” This approach helps them develop critical thinking skills and allows you to better understand their thoughts and feelings.
- Lead By Example: Acknowledge your own anxieties and biases about politics. While it’s okay to share your beliefs with your children, focus on modeling self-care, setting boundaries, and practicing healthy communication and listening skills in your discussions.
Some Affirmations For People With Election Anxiety
Lastly, we’re sharing some affirmations from Whitney Goodman to help you get through this moment. We hope they help you as much as they helped us.
- My feelings are real and valid.
- I’m anxious because this is important to me.
- Turning off the news or turning out for a minute doesn’t mean I don’t care.
- No matter what happens, I will keep fighting for what I believe in.
- I’m allowed to set boundaries with my time, energy, and space.
- My needs matter.
- We have the power to create the world we want.
- It’s ok just to focus on what I need right now.
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