A theme that is recurring in therapy sessions, casual conversations, and with friends is that people are increasingly anxious about November 5. Some of these people indicate they are always anxious about elections in general, but many of them have indicated that this election feels really critical. There are very divisive issues on the ballot and political parties are about more than a difference in perspective about economic policy. In Missouri there are commercials nonstop about Amendment 3 where women are describing birthing and sexual trauma. It is a barrage of triggers for many women (and men).
The current issues on the ballot are enough reason for many people to feel anxious, but the additional challenge is that politics are being discussed everywhere. Politics are on the altar/pulpit on Sundays, it is on social media and other forms of media, and in our workplaces.Some people choose to carefully skirt around politics to avoid conflict with colleagues, family, and friends and others are incredibly confrontational. I hear people share how they have stopped attending family events due to an inability to tolerate their family’s political views. The political is now very personal.
In the next week there are some things you can do to help yourself manage your intense emotions and anxiety. First, avoid triggers by avoiding media filled with political ads. Binge your favorite lighthearted sitcom/series on Netflix. Read books that are an escape (ie fantasy, romance, fiction, etc). This is not the time to pull out a heavy presidential biography or watch shows focused on political topics. Engage in social media fast. Avoid phone calls with triggering people. There is no way to avoid all of the signs in your community, but control what input you can control.
Second, remember what is under your control. You and your actions are in your control. Remember to engage in self care activities. Connect with nature by taking a walk and enjoying the fall foliage. Exercise. Do yoga. Meditate. Have a dance party to music you love. Get creative by crafting. Bake.
Let your feelings out. In Burnout and Come As You Are Dr. Emily Nagowski introduces the stress cycle. She emphasizes the importance of “dumping” your stress regularly in order to maintain your physical and mental health. You can dump your stress by working out and getting your heart pumping. Yell. Cry. Go to a Rage Room and break some stuff. Clean like you have company coming over.
Finally, make a plan for being in a supportive environment for election day. This might look like planning for a movie marathon and ice cream for dinner. It could be doing something with friends. At Better Together Mental Health we are offering an Election Day Open House from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. in our group office. Come by and stay for a few minutes or hours. We will have snacks, games, and other activities to give you a place to take a safe break from politics. Our team of therapists will be there to offer support if you need it too.
Just remember that you are not alone. No matter what your views are, there are other people who stand with you. So, go vote (you can vote early or on November 5 at your polling place). Your vote is in your control. Take time to relax and take care of yourself. Turn off the 24/7 coverage of the election results. If you need more ideas for how to cope or need a professional for support come to our open house on November 5 or by contacting our office to schedule an appointment with a therapist (we offer single sessions if you are not an existing client, but would like to see someone).
