A February 2024 Pew poll found that 65% of U.S. adults always or often felt exhausted
by politics and 55% always or often felt angry. But research now shows the distress
we feel around politics can harm our physical and mental health—recent voting cycles
highlight the extent of the issue, as we’ve seen a significant increase in reports
of election-related stress and anxiety.
Elections will not and can not cease because they cause stress, however we must find
a way to manage political anxiety in a healthy, productive way. Below, you can find detailed information on why many people experience anxiety around
elections, resources on how to cope during these times of uncertainty and links to
related readings.
This resource is adapted from The University of Maryland's "Managing Political Stress" page with content adapted from The Counseling and Psychological Services at Penn
State Harrisburg.
MEDIA OVERLOAD
Social media, round-the-clock news and information, and constant updates can quickly
become overwhelming, adding to already-frayed nerves. When you add in the high stakes
of election season, it becomes even more stressful. Media overload can cause exhaustion,
a sense of helplessness or hopelessness, frustration, and confusion. For many, it
can even cause anger.Polarization
POLARIZATION
Where once it was easy to find common middle ground, people were happy to agree to
disagree, and differing opinions warranted respect, today, political discourse is
more divisive than it is a healthy discussion. The resulting “us vs. them” mentality
can breed fear and exacerbate feelings of anxiety over the outcome of elections in
the future.
UNCERTAINTY/LOSS OF CONTROL
Every election seems to be a pivotal moment. It can feel like the fate of our country
hangs in the balance and that we have little to no control over the future. Feelings
of uncertainty can be unsettling or stressful, and when fear of the unknown arises,
it can force us to come to terms with what an election really means, which can be
gravely anxiety-provoking.
ELECTION STRESS KIT AND CONTINUUM*
*Adapted from The Counseling and Psychological Services at Penn State Harrisburg.
UNPLUG:Limit your consumption of social media and the 24-hour non-stop images. It’s important
to stay informed, but creating boundaries is important.
BE PRESENT:Use reflection to recognize your inner thoughts and feelings. Be curious and non-judgmental
and give yourself permission to feel the way you do. Although avoiding can be useful, “stuffing” or ignoring strong emotions can have negative impacts.
REFUEL:Focus on restoring yourself with rest and healthy food. Drink water and try to limit
caffeine. Move a little every day. Take a walk; look at the sky; be in nature. Journal
or meditate. Make art or watch funny videos. Read something fun.
CONNECT:Engage with supportive friends and allies. Talk about current issues, if needed, but
be aware of when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Not everyone will share your perspective,
so it’s OK to limit your topics and avoid heated conflict. Reach out to supportive
services on-campus, including the SCC.
DO SOMETHING: Channel what you’re feeling into positive, meaningful activity. Be informed and proactive
around issues that matter to you. Find ways to engage in your community through advocacy
in ways that fit for you.
