Part 2 - Managing Election Anxiety

Though tomorrow, Nov. 3th is Election Day in the U.S., in reality, we're facing an election week or perhaps month(s) which means heightened anxiety for many of us. After you've made a voting plan and voted, start making your self-care plan to get through this period.

Election self-care plan

We have been living through a pandemic, racial uprisings, and now an extended election season. These are not normal times which means that our normal ways of coping with stress and anxiety may not work as well. We need to be deliberate in how we take care of ourselves and our emotions in the coming days, weeks, and months. Focus on what you can control and commit to tending to your emotions and reactions on a daily basis. 

Limit media and social media - Though you may be tempted to stay glued to the screen there comes a point when it becomes unhealthy for your brain and spirit. The news cycle repeats itself so you don't have to watch it endlessly. Commit to a period of time and then turn it off. If something major happens, you'll probably get a text from a friend so you don't need to worry about missing anything.

Let technology help you - If you're struggling to limit your media and social media intake use the digital wellness controls on your phone to limit how much time you spend on certain apps. Turn the screen to grayscale so it's less appealing and schedule a time when your phone will turn off.

Helpful distractions - Read a book or watch a show that has nothing to do with real life and brings you joy. Ask friends for light-hearted book and movie suggestions.

Move your body - Movement literally helps emotions move through us so they don't get stuck. Dance, walk, run, do anything that gets you moving to release your anxiety.

Stay present in the moment - This can be incredibly difficult to do now and on your own so get help with staying present. There are many great mindfulness and meditation apps to guide you (Liberate, Calm, Headspace)

Managing Post-Election Anxiety workshop - Monday, November 9th 12:00pm EST. Registration required.

Maintaining working relationships

See the humanity in the other person. This is really hard when you don't believe that others see the humanity in you. Though challenging, it is necessary to maintain a working relationship. 

Focus on commonalities. We all want the same thing in life, whether it’s a good education for our children, the ability to care for aging parents, or living in a safe environment, we all share basic common needs and desires.

Managing your emotions

Acknowledge your emotions and reactions. Ignoring or numbing emotions don’t make them disappear. It actually causes more stress for you, your body, and your relationships. Take the time to check in with yourself and your body to understand how you are feeling. Are you anxious, sad, fearful, excited, curious?

Express your emotions. Write in a journal, talk to a friend, or join a group where you can share your emotions and thoughts related to the upcoming election.

Set boundaries. Talk of the election is everywhere and can be overwhelming. Consider setting time limits on how much media and social media you consume daily. Give yourself permission not to engage in conversations with friends, family, and co-workers about the upcoming election.

Want more support for Managing Post-Election Anxiety? Join us on Monday, November 9th 12:00pm EST. Registration required.