The election is often a stressful time, whether you’re politically involved, or just navigating the sensitive topics that seem to be buzzing all around. At Tava Health, we asked clinicians how they help patients manage stress related to the upcoming election, and they offered the following recommendations. These strategies focus on practical coping techniques, emotional support, and maintaining balance during a time when emotions and opinions can run high:
Mindfulness techniques, such as staying in the moment and practicing deep breathing, can help you focus on the present and reduce election-related anxiety. It might mean naming blue things in the room, counting in your head, or going outside, as sensory stimulation can help ground you in the present.
Setting boundaries around media exposure is crucial. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the election news, try reducing news consumption to a few trusted sources and setting specific times to check updates. Constant exposure to political coverage will only add to your stress.
Social media is littered with political ads and news. You may even have some extended family who are very vocal in your feed. To avoid emotional overload, take regular breaks from social media or mute political discussions that feel triggering.
“A good rule of thumb is to establish and keep as best you can a daily schedule that includes checking media, but only at certain times and for a brief period of time.” - Raymond Wagstaff, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
It’s important to focus on what is within your control, such as daily priorities and personal goals, to combat feelings of helplessness and uncertainty during the election season. There is much that we cannot control as individuals, but we cannot let those worries consume our waking moments.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques are used to challenge and reframe negative thinking. Separate facts from emotionally charged thoughts, and question these negative thoughts with an open mind to reach a more balanced perspective. Here’s our resource for challenging negative thoughts.
Therapists offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to express your concerns and anxieties about the election. This is the perfect place to validate your feelings while receiving support in sorting through your thoughts. Sign up or schedule an appointment with a Tava therapist here.
Self-care routines such as regular exercise, sleep hygiene, and a healthy diet are essential for maintaining both physical and emotional well-being during stressful times. Check out Tava’s guide for self-care here. If you need ideas, here’s our worksheet of uplifting activities to get you started.
Focus on your values to avoid being overwhelmed by divisive election rhetoric. Checking in with personal beliefs and aligning actions with those values can help reduce stress and bring a sense of empowerment.
“Encourage them to check in with their personal values frequently to ensure they remain aligned with them to prevent any internal conflict that can lead to depression/anxiety.” - Page Graham, Therapist
Stay connected with supportive friends and family. Open communication with loved ones can provide emotional relief and a sense of stability – especially during what may feel like tumultuous times.
Direct election-related anxiety into productive action, such as researching candidates, voting, or engaging in community advocacy, which will give you a greater sense of control.
“Leverage Anxiety as a Guide: Teach clients to listen to their anxiety as an early warning system, guiding them to areas in their life that need addressing. This empowers them to use anxiety proactively rather than seeing it as a problem to be eliminated.” - Teresa Turner, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
By applying these strategies, you can manage the stress of the election season while maintaining your mental and emotional well-being.
