Coping with Election Stress

Today is Midterm Election Day, and this one carries real weight. And a lot of people are carrying more than they let on. In the American Psychological Association’s 2024 Stress in America survey, 69% of adults called the presidential election a significant source of stress, and 72% worried the results could lead to violence. Whatever happens by tonight, here are some practical ways to cope that may help.

Easing the Doom Scroll

I covered doom scrolling in my January post, and this expands on it. A 2024 study in Computers in Human Behavior Reports suggests that habitual consumption of distressing news may predict higher existential anxiety. It may help to pick just two trusted sources, decide ahead of time when you’ll check in, and set a timer you actually honor. If you notice the urge to refresh, you might try 1 slow breath before you unlock the screen. A quick way to see whether an outlet fits you may be to follow the money. Where does their funding come from, and where do they send their own money? It may help to choose sources whose funders and partners line up with your values. It may also help to check whether the company is set up as a news organization or as an entertainment company.

Check In on the People Around You

If you’re feeling even keeled, consider reaching out to friends, family, and coworkers who may not be. It can help to start with something like, “I’m not a therapist, but I’m happy to listen. I’m not sure how much I can fix, but I can listen.” Many people appreciate that honesty, because they often just want to vent, and that’s okay. If someone does share what they’re experiencing, be prepared to truly listen, not fix. Being heard is one of the most powerful things you can offer, and it’s one of the primary reasons talk therapy works.

Take Care of Yourself, Too

If your distress feels bigger than usual, it may be worth talking to your psychiatric medication prescriber about whether a short-term adjustment could help. Starting therapy is also a reasonable step if you’ve been thinking about it. And if you need to talk to someone right now, you can call or text 988 anytime, for free. Reaching out for added support is not an overreaction, and it may make the next few days much more manageable.

“Fight Like Hell, “ However Suits You

Stress can be a signal that something matters to you. Fight for your rights and for the people you care about. “Reasonable” is a subjective word, so take whatever reasonable steps you see fit into your own hands, whether that’s voting, organizing, donating, volunteering, or showing up for your neighbors. You don’t have to do everything, and you may do better pacing yourself for the long haul. For more tools, the Queer Psych Talk library and the printable workbooks on my website may be useful. And if you’d like support from a psychologist along the way, I’d welcome the conversation. You can book a consultation with me directly using the form below.