Tips for how to manage the stress post-election
By Mikaila Bluew
Do elections cause stress?
“Post-Election stress disorder” is unwanted stress, fear, depression or anxiety leading up to and following the election. The severity of post-election stress can be hard to quantify as it is not classified as an identified mental illness. But much like general and acute anxiety disorders, this can affect mental and physical wellbeing. Some of the ways anxiety and excessive stress can affect people include:
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Constant worry
- Forgetfulness
- Poor judgment
- Heart palpitations
- Excessive sweating
- An upset stomach
- Headaches
- Low energy
- Insomnia
- Difficulty focusing
- Nervousness
- Shaking
- Ringing in the ears
- Tense muscles and associated joint pain
Statistics from the American Sociological Association show the turmoil regarding the election is at an all-time high this season. According to their studies and the recent poll:
- 77% of adults in the United States view the future of the U.S. as a significant source of stress in their lives.
- 69% said the 2024 presidential election in specific was a significant stressor in their day-to-day lives.
These statistics are significantly higher than the 52% from the 2016 election, and slightly higher than the 68% from the 2020 election cycle. The factors that cause this anxiety have made individuals feel it would be better to move states or even leave the country.
What causes it?
Many factors contribute to the growing fear and anxiety:
- Social media and news coverage: There is 24-hour coverage, so people feel there is no way to escape the endless election coverage. The growing fear of false information also contributes to this with 82% of individuals fearful people may base values and opinions on false claims.
- Social exposure and election stress: Many individuals state they are stressed due to differing political views with their families and friends. Many state they limit the time spent with family or completely ignore political issues to stop strain.
- Growing concern for the future: Across the country, no matter what political view, people are scared for the future of the country.
- 72% of individuals fear the election may end in violence.
- More than half of the adults in the poll stated they fear 2024 will be the end of democracy in the U.S.
- 49% of LGBTQ+ members state they have been subject to real world harassment and bullying due to political discourse.
What can we do about it?
Mental health services have advice on how to handle election stress and allow yourself space from the election drama.
- Take care of yourself—don’t forget to still eat well and maintain healthy habits like exercise and self-care routines.
- Surround yourself with positive energy – Surround yourself with positive influences that are not election-obsessed to step away from the political talk for a while.
- Log off–don’t be afraid to log off and avoid news and social media coverage of the election for a while, opt to watch a movie or listen to music instead.
- Avoid political discourse–it’s okay to tell family you will not be discussing politics with them following the election.
- Keep it in perspective–no major changes can be made directly after the election, although it may feel overwhelming, it’s okay to take a deep breath and take things slowly.
If you are a current Delta college student and feel you may be struggling with stress and anxiety during or following the election, Delta offers counseling services. To learn more about this resource email confidentialcounsel@delta.edu or visit room D102.
Delta College also has the Prism Alliance which aims to make Delta a safe, secure and affirming environment for students that are a part of the LGBTQ+ Community. To reach this resource email prismalliance@delta.edu or visit room B137 to speak with the LGBTQ+ liaison and coordinator.
