A majority of The Americans were stressed before Election dayand now after the election, emotions are still high for many across the country.
Experts say Americans of various political views may be overcome by emotions in the wake of the election results, from pride and optimism to disappointment, frustration and even fear.
“Feelings of, ‘How did this happen?’ are likely to be widespread and would have been regardless of how the vote had gone. communities and hopes for the future,” Chaitali Sinha, psychologist and chief clinical research and development officer at mental health app Wysa, told CBS News.
If you’re someone who wants to better cope with heightened emotions around the election, here are some tips according to experts.
Coping with election results, loss
Know you are not alone: “It’s perfectly normal for people to feel a sense of loss or fear when election results don’t match their hopes,” Sinha said, adding that those feelings can “take a toll on mental health,” making coping strategies important.
Regardless of your feelings about the election results, Harry Cohenpsychologist and author of “Be The Sun, Not The Salt,” suggests extending an “extra scoop of grace to those who are struggling.” This can include yourself as well, he said.
“Be aware that everyone processes emotions differently,” he said.
Use happy, healthy distractions: “Engaging in self-care activities, such as spending time outdoors, exercising or spending time with supportive friends can offer relief and a break from stress,” Sinha said.
Grounding techniques like deep breathing, journaling or simply naming your feelings to help process them can also be helpful, she said.
Once you feel calmer, redirecting your energy into action can help you feel more empowered, according to Dr. Michele Nealon, clinical psychologist and president of the Chicago School. This can include taking a walk, reading a book, volunteering, or finding other ways to contribute positively.
“Acknowledging your feelings and focusing on what you can influence can relieve stress and bring back a sense of control and purpose,” Nealon said.
If you choose to channel your energy into supporting causes that resonate with you, just don’t overdo it.
“To avoid burnout, especially in a climate where people may already feel exhausted, it’s important to set boundaries,” says Nealon. “Recognize that everyone has different tolerance levels and different ways of engaging. Pacing yourself, setting achievable goals, and prioritizing self-care are all key to maintaining your energy.”
Limit doomscrolling: “It’s important to take a break from the news,” Sinha said.
Psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma recently told CBS News she suggests setting a timer on social media apps to set boundaries on phone notifications.
“It’s really important to have and create sacred spaces throughout the day where you don’t have constant messages,” she said.
Try not to spiral: “Don’t catastrophize the future with what ‘will happen.’” Nobody knows what will happen, Cohen says. “Remember that you’ve been through bad disappointments before. Every time you got through it. This one is no different.”
Seek help if needed: For those who feel particularly overwhelmed, talking to a mental health professional can also provide guidance – and some are already leaning towards organizations that can help.
The Trevor Project, for example, reported on Tuesday that the LGBTQ+ youth-focused mental health organization saw a nearly 200% increase in election-related topics of conversation across its crisis services in the days leading up to the results.
While emotional reactions to a high-stakes election are common, especially for those in marginalized communities, lingering feelings of sadness, anxiety or fear that begin to affect everyday life can signal the need for additional support, Nealon said.
“It’s normal to feel down or anxious, especially if you’re worried about personal or family well-being, but if these feelings continue to interfere with your sleep, focus or energy, professional guidance can help,” she said.
Tips for navigating family who voted differently
With Thanksgiving around the corner, some are already worried about political differences that are making family gatherings feel tense.
Sinha warns that no good comes from heated political arguments with your family members.
“Approach these interactions with curiosity and empathy where possible, rather than judgment, no matter how challenging it may feel,” she advised. “Try to listen actively and find common values, even if your political beliefs differ.”
If that’s not possible, setting boundaries can help.
This can look like politely steering the topic elsewhere if a conversation gets heated or uncomfortable or simply drifts away.
Cohen suggests finding a phrase that works for you and your situation. He shared some examples, including:
- “Let’s move on, shall we?”
- “I think it’s better for our relationship if we avoid talking about the election.”
- “I wish there was a different outcome, but let’s agree that we must accept the results and do our best to find common ground between us.”
- “Now that the election is over, I’m looking forward to NOT talking about it at all anymore.”
When words are not enough, try to change things.
“If some relatives continue to discuss divisive topics, having a backup activity, such as a game, holiday activity or shared project, can help redirect the group’s attention,” Nealon said.
And if a gathering will cause too much stress, consider setting an even bigger boundary by not attending.
“Be open but considerate. One might say, “I really appreciate the invitation, but I need some time to unwind this season. Let’s plan something soon that allows us to connect in a lighthearted way.” Respecting your own boundaries is important to maintaining both your mental health and meaningful relationships, she says.
Post-Election Mental Health Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can reach out 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can too chat with 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here.
National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline
For more information on mental health resources and supportThe NAMI HelpLine can be reached Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email info@nami.org.
The Trevor Project
For LGBTQIA+ youth seeking free, confidential crisis support, call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678 or visit their website to chat with a gender-affirming and queer-friendly curator.
Veterans Crisis Line
Call 988 and then press 1, text 838255 or chat online here.
Addiction support
Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous has resources on its website, including virtual meetings.
SAMHSA’s National Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Helpline can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
