INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Post-election tension, stress and anxiety — a wide range of emotions — are normal, according to mental health experts.
Three health experts spoke to News 8 about ways to deal with post-election emotions.
A mental health and wellness writer and essayist, Diane N. Solomonsaid Thursday, “Some people are very happy and satisfied — and a lot of the country, actually, the majority. But people who are shocked, sad, grieving and very scared are still in that phase of shock.”
More negative emotions – anger, stress and anxiety – can affect mental health. Some marginalized communities – LGBTQ+, women, immigrants, refugees and people of color – have expressed concern.
Psychologist Mary Alvord said: “There is a concern about what is going to happen. There is a high level of anxiety because there is a high level of uncertainty.”
But it is not only marginalized communities. The American Psychological Association ranks the top three stressors for Americans today as the future of the nation, the economy and the election.
People dealing with these stressful emotions, health experts say, should turn off the news and social media and seek community. Don’t isolate yourself.
Jennifer Embrya nurse and clinical professor at the Indiana University School of Nursing, said, “Try to think about who builds you up and who supports you on a typical day when you’re stressed or worried and then (think about) ‘How can I get contact with these people to really support me?’ and in turn you support other people.”
Other recommendations from American Psychological Association include deep breathing, taking a walk or relaxing with a hobby like meditation. Additional healthy ways to deal with stress from are available here.
Normally, negative feelings should last a few days, but if the chronic stress and anxiety lasts for months or longer, it is recommended to seek professional help.
“Daily life is hard enough. We add additional stress to it, so it’s really hard for people to get around it,” Embree says.
All three experts agreed: Find common ground.
“Increasing division is unhealthy for ourselves, our relationship and for our country. It’s something we can individually work to make a change,” Solomon said.
Alvord said, “It’s important to know, as Americans, that there are values that we share, and I think it’s time to focus on that because we have families that are pretty divided and were coming into the holiday season. … Talk about what you have in common. Most people love their families and want the best for their families.”
