News and social media feeds have been filled with election talk, much of it negative. It’s enough to make even the most well-adjusted people feel anxious. For people who have endured traumatic experiences, the talk can re-traumatize. For children who are absorbing and observing their parents’ tension and fears, school discussions can upset, too.

Your most important vote is for your own well-being.

Be Aware of Negative Feelings

Behavioral health professionals say it’s especially important to pay attention to negative feelings that may arise. Unplugging, focusing on self-care, keeping a long-term perspective, and finding personal fulfillment offer healthy ways out of this stressful place, regardless of who wins.

In its Stress in America survey, the American Psychological Association found significant reported feelings that the previous election was a somewhat or very significant source of stress, regardless of party affiliation. People who frequently used social media were more likely to report the election was a very or somewhat significant source of stress, about 54 percent, compared to 45 percent for others. Younger people were almost as likely as seniors to report feeling election stress. And people with disabilities were most likely to report election stress, with 60 percent saying it was a very or somewhat significant stressor.

Ways you can manage the emotions and election concerns:

• First, remember that close to half of the electorate is likely to be disappointed immediately after the election, so sensitivity is in order whether your candidate wins or loses. Maintain your boundaries. If you don’t want to discuss politics with a neighbor or classmate, politely say so. “I’d rather talk about something else. Did you see any movies this weekend?” is one easy way to change the subject.
• Second, pay attention to your body. Are your muscles tensing? Is your breathing speeding up, or does your stomach hurt while you’re on social media or watching results on TV? Take a break. Shut it down. It will still be there tomorrow.
• Fresh air, sunshine, and exercise are some of the best antidepressants around, and they’re free! Take a walk. Better yet, take a walk with someone you love, and talk about fun things, or make future plans.
• Take care of yourself by eating healthy meals and getting enough sleep.
• If you’re really feeling overwhelmed, write it down. What are you most afraid of? Make a list. Take that list to your therapist and discuss why those worst fears are unlikely to materialize.
• Channel your energy and concerns into something positive, like volunteering for a good cause in our community, whether it’s a veterans’ support program or a food pantry.

Free Emotional Support and Mental Health Help

Remember if you need to talk, Peace River Center’s Mobile Crisis Response Team is free and available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year by calling 863.519.3744. As your community behavioral health organization, Peace River Center has a variety of mental health programs including crisis stabilization, inpatient and outpatient services, group homes, substance use disorder services, mental illness recovery programs, and more. To learn more browse our website pages or call 863.519.0575.

Adapted and reposted with permission. Developed by Chrysalis Health, an accredited statewide provider of mental health, substance use and crisis services. For more information about Chrysalis, https://www.chrysalishealth.com. Originally posted July 11, 2016.