Election results can induce emotions, whether celebratory or stressful. Let’s be real: the results of this week’s presidential election have had an especially heavy impact on many of us and with an uncertain road ahead, we may be juggling intense feelings of stress, regardless of political beliefs. Going into the presidential election this year, reported levels of stress related to the election were higher than in both 2020 and 2016. Considering what we’re already seeing in the sharp rise of calls to crisis hotlines — including a volume increase of 700% in the Trevor Project’s LGBTQ+ crisis contacts — the heavy impact of the election results on our communities is clear.
Whether you’re feeling anger, disappointment, dread, isolation, fear, or sadness — it is okay to not be okay. Just as we have done for elections prior, now is a good time to take a breather, try out some coping tips, and figure out our next step.
Let it out.
If you’re disappointed with the results of the election, it’s ok to cry, be angry, and grieve. Look to your support system to help you through, and try to find like-minded individuals to process with.
Call your therapist.
If you are in therapy or feel like this is a good time to start, call to make an appointment. Having someone to talk to who is non-judgmental and trained to support you can be a huge relief.
Focus on what you can control.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by developments that are out of your control. That’s why it’s important to identify simple actions in your control and prioritize making time for them.
Make a list of things you can do to bring stability — whether it is making your bed or researching policies and resources in your community. As you work through each item on your list, cross it off and take a moment to enjoy the sense of reassurance in the little accomplishments.
Get back to your routine.
Go to class, the gym, see a friend, go for a run. Make sure you’re maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and taking care of your body. Do what you would on a normal day to prevent post-election stress from overtaking you.
Moderate alcohol and substance use.
Alcohol is a depressant. So, if you’re feeling down, alcohol will only make it harder for you to think clearly, get out of bed in the morning, and maintain your relationships.
Lead with love.
Volunteer for a local organization, participate in a random act of kindness for someone, put more love into the world. Show up for the world in the way you want the world to show up for you.
Lean on one another.
With all of the uncertainty in the air, it’s easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed with dread. When these moments come, remember you’re not alone; we are strongest when we lean on one another and work together. Lean on your community. Supporting others can help you feel like you’re doing something, even when you’re unsure of what to do next.
Reach out.
Talk to someone who needs support. You can’t always change what someone is going through, but you can acknowledge their feelings, support by listening, and keep-in-touch regularly to let them know how much you care. Gain confidence for these conversations with A.S.K.!
Tap into Resources.
Whether you or someone you know has been triggered or is struggling, there are many resources available:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
- RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- The Trevor Project Helpline (for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults): 1-866-488-7386
- Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
- Crisis Text Line: Text BRAVE to 741-741
Find out what resources are being offered on your campus and in your area. Some campus communities are offering additional group therapy sessions, community conversations, and support groups.
Breathe.
Focus on your breathing –– inhale slowly and deeply, hold, then exhale. Try it again. Notice how you were breathing before this without even thinking about it. Isn’t it wonderful the ways our bodies take care of ourselves?
Looking for even more tips on self-care during election season? Mental Health America x Active Minds’ Voter Guide includes 12 more tips on prioritizing self-care while balancing civic engagement and mental health.
