WASHINGTON (7News) — Politics can be draining for most people in the US, especially with Americans riding a roller coaster of emotions since the start of 2024.
It’s no surprise that political unrest topped a list of physical and psychological stressors in the United States, based on American Psychological Association’s stress in America 2024 investigation. But with the election results mostly counted, and many of the winners declared, some may continue to feel higher levels of stress and anxiety related to the political landscape ahead.
You’ve probably felt it too, the physical stress on your body, difficulty sleeping, mixed emotions, paranoia and fear when watching political ads, programs or social media posts. You are not alone, others have similar reactions.
For now is the time to focus on your own mental and physical health and give yourself the space and grace to do so.
Focus on what you can control and what positive actions you can take, at least according to an expert Mayo Clinic 2020.
“We have to figure out how to control what is controllable. What is within our control? What can we do? One thing we can do with this election is we can vote,” says psychiatrist Dr. Robert Bright. “We can take personal control, and our voice is as loud as anyone else’s. And that’s the wonderful thing about living in a democracy. We all have an equal stake.”
This may mean unplugging TV and social media for the time being and only using platforms to message others for comfort.
The Washington Post recommends taking time to find something that brings you joy (listening to music, eating your favorite snacks, walking the dog, appreciating the everyday, etc.). They also recommend stretching, exercising or practicing a short meditation.
A psychologist with University of California, Irvine (UCI) Counseling Center also suggested the following tips:
1. Separate people (and their intrinsic value) from their viewpoints
This is especially true when it comes to friends and family. Exercise your empathy muscle by remembering a time in your life when you believed something or held a certain point of view and then changed your mind. Your opinions are part of who you are, but they don’t define you.
2. Pay attention
Before engaging in a discussion/debate with someone, think about your goals. Will you really change their mind or make them admit you are right? Acknowledge and acknowledge the fear, anxiety, and anger that you and the other person have. It can feel scary if you believe that your rights can be taken away from you, that your values are trampled upon or that your chances for a successful future are diminished. It makes sense to feel angry at what you perceive as unfairness and injustice.
3. Set boundaries
As said before, limit time on social media and take mental breaks from politics. Remember, it’s ok to walk away from an overly heated conversation that doesn’t feel productive or meaningful.
4. Beware of misinformation
The election is over but misinformation and misinformation will still, unfortunately, be spread. Educate yourself about the facts and their sources. Consider visiting News Literacy Project website to learn more.
5. Remember the golden rule
Don’t go rogue if you don’t want to go rogue, and do your best to remain civil and refrain from slander.
6. Finally, stay curious.
Everyone has a different background and upbringing that leads them to the decisions they make. There is something to learn from everyone.
