Election stress

Life

How to Manage Election Stress and Fatigue

As election season comes to its climactic end, many of us find ourselves feeling overwhelmed and anxious. For many, the constant barrage of news updates, social media alerts, and political discussions can take a toll on mental and physical well-being.

In a new Baptist HealthTalk podcast, host Willard Shepard discussed this timely topic with Janelle Falcon, LMFT, and Manuela Rodriguez, LMFT, both licensed Marriage and Family Therapists at Baptist Health. They talked about practical strategies for coping with election-related stress.

Understanding the Source of Stress

Asked Mr. Shepard: “How do we end up in this spot with all this social media and text messages coming to us? It is a lot of stress.”

Ms. Falcon explains that while digital technology offers incredible advantages, it also amplifies stress levels. “We may find ourselves becoming more irritable and isolated, often engaging in 'doom scrolling' — spending endless hours glued to our screens,” she explains. “Physically, stress manifests in various ways, such as headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.”

Adds Ms. Rodriguez: “Absolutely, and this stress extends beyond ourselves. It affects how we interact with our families, coworkers, and friends. The repercussions are felt in all areas of our lives, disrupting our daily tasks and relationships.”

Specifically, Ms. Rodriguez points out thatour interactions with others can become strained. If we’re more irritable, it can hinder our communication and expression, leading to friction in our relationships.”

Balancing Information Consumption

“How do we balance staying informed with being mentally healthy?” Mr. Shepard asks.

Ms. Falcon: “Setting boundaries is crucial. Assess how much time you’re spending on social media and consuming news. Consider whether you’re actively choosing to engage with content or passively absorbing it. It's important to limit your intake to what truly matters to you, rather than trying to absorb everything, which feels impossible during an election cycle.”

“Research shows that political anxiety is distinct from general anxiety. What’s the difference and why does it matter?” Mr. Shepard asks.

Ms. Rodriguez: “That’s an important distinction. Generalized anxiety is a recognized diagnosis in the DSM-5 (a reference book for mental health and brain-related conditions), while political anxiety, though increasingly discussed, isn’t formally classified. It’s important for individuals experiencing political anxiety to understand this. When you work with a mental health therapist, you’ll explore how political issues impact other areas of your life without labeling it as a stand-alone diagnosis.”

Practical Tips for Coping

Based on the podcast discussion, here are some practical tips to help you manage election stress:

  1. Limit Screen Time: Set specific times for checking news and social media to prevent overwhelming yourself with information.
  2. Engage in Mindful Consumption: Choose reliable news sources and focus on content that aligns with your values and interests.
  3. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies that you enjoy.
  4. Connect with Others: Maintain open lines of communication with friends and family, discussing your feelings and supporting each other through this stressful time.
  5. Seek Professional Help: If political anxiety is impacting your daily life significantly, consider speaking with a therapist who can help you navigate these feelings.

In a time where political discussions can feel overwhelming, it’s essential to prioritize mental health. By setting boundaries and focusing on self-care, Baptist Health therapists say, you can navigate this election season with resilience and calm.

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