By David Blacker, LMFT
Let’s be real: tomorrow is a Big Deal. No matter your political leanings, the presidential election is hard to ignore—and for some of us, it's almost impossible to turn off. There’s a reason so many people are feeling a little (or a lot) stressed about this one. You’re not imagining things! The heightened emotions, the constant news cycle, the high stakes—it’s a recipe for collective anxiety. So if you're on edge, you're in good company.
Why exactly does Election Day create so much stress? First, there's the uncertainty. Not knowing what’s coming next is basically a red flag for anxiety. Then there's the non-stop media coverage that makes it feel like we're living in a reality show we never auditioned for. Add in social media feeds, where everyone seems to have a strong opinion (and a loud one), and it’s enough to make anyone feel a bit dizzy.
The good news? There are ways to keep your head on straight and your mental health intact. Here are five down-to-earth tips to help you stay sane during election season:
1. Give Your News Feed a Timeout
If there was ever a time to not keep up with every single headline, this is it. While it's tempting to keep scrolling, constant exposure to election news can feel like sipping an espresso every five minutes and expecting not to get jittery. Set specific times to check the news—maybe once in the morning and once in the evening. Better yet, skip the phone entirely and get your updates from a reliable news source, then leave it alone. Trust me, you won't miss out on anything groundbreaking by giving your newsfeed a little breathing room. Plus, you’ll regain a sense of control over what’s pouring into your mind.
2. Focus on What You Can Control
The truth is, none of us can single-handedly decide the fate of the country. (Unless you’re a time-traveling superhero, and in that case, please go ahead.) But we can control our actions and reactions. Taking steps within your immediate sphere, like casting your vote, planning your day tomorrow, or even making time to engage in activities you enjoy, brings your focus back to things you can actually influence. It’s a much better use of your energy than mentally replaying every scenario that may or may not happen. And yes, your “influence” here also includes choosing what’s for dinner. Food is power!
3. Connect with People Who Calm, Not Agitate, You
Election season can be a real test of friendship, especially when everyone suddenly feels the need to give a TED Talk about their political beliefs. While it’s natural to want to talk about what’s going on, choose your audience wisely. Connect with friends and family who help you feel grounded and supported, even if you don’t share the same views. If Uncle Bob from Facebook is causing your blood pressure to rise, consider skipping his posts for a while. No one needs that kind of drama—especially now.
4. Move Your Body
No, this isn’t just a plug to “exercise more.” The truth is, moving around is one of the quickest ways to release stress. When we’re anxious, our bodies react as if they’re facing a real threat, and physical activity helps us burn off that anxious energy. So take a walk, dance around your living room, do some yoga, or (why not?) punch a pillow if that helps. The goal is to get your blood flowing, release those stress hormones, and maybe even laugh at yourself while you’re at it. Because let's face it, half of anxiety is taking ourselves a bit too seriously.
5. Plan Something Fun (Yes, Even Tomorrow)
Look, you’ll still be you on the other side of this election, no matter what happens. Sometimes the best way to break the tension is to remind ourselves that life goes on. Make plans to do something you enjoy tomorrow, whether it’s getting together with friends, watching a funny movie, or finally trying out that new recipe. Engaging in activities that make you feel relaxed or joyful is not only good for your mental health—it’s also a way to reclaim your day from anxiety. You’re allowed to enjoy your life, even if the future is uncertain.
In Conclusion
The election has made nerves a bit frayed, but you can get through it without sacrificing your mental health. Just because everyone else seems to be on edge doesn’t mean you have to join the Anxiety Olympics. By setting boundaries, connecting with people who lift you up, moving around, and making a little time for joy, you’ll come out on the other side feeling calmer and stronger.
So take a deep breath. (Really—do it. I'll wait.) You’ve got this. No matter the outcome, remember that your mental well-being deserves protection, too. And tomorrow, it’s okay to give yourself a break and remember that the sun will still rise, even after Election Day.
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