Election Stress: Understanding the Psychological Impact

Elections can be an exhilarating time, with debates, rallies, and campaigns bringing excitement and hope for the future. However, the period leading up to elections often carries significant stress. The constant media coverage, polarizing discussions, and emotional involvement can lead to heightened stress levels for many. In this blog post, we'll explore the various ways in which elections can cause stress and what we can do to manage it. Firstly, this article will go through both the physical and mental symptoms of stress, and some of the major outcomes of election stress along with some tips to better manage it. We will also discuss the role your counselor can play in mitigating post election stress and helping you feel more at peace.

Signs and Symptoms

Physical Symptoms:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Muscle tension
• Sleep changes
• Changes in appetite
• Digestive issues

Mental Symptoms:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Feelings of being overwhelmed
• Irritability
• Cognitive issues

1. Information Overload

One of the most noticeable stressors during an election season is information overload, or the influx of information from many different sources in a short amount of time. The constant stream of news, advertisements, debates, and social media updates can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed. The amount of information can create confusion and anxiety, as people struggle to process what is true, what is biased, and what is relevant.

Psychological Impact: Information overload can lead to decision fatigue, where individuals feel exhausted and unable to make informed choices. It can also increase feelings of uncertainty and doubt, especially if the information contradicts previous beliefs.

How to Manage It: To cope with information overload, it's important to set boundaries. Limit exposure to news outlets and social media, and focus on a few trusted sources for information. Take breaks from election-related content and spend time on other activities.

2. Polarization and Division

In today's politically charged environment, it often feels like every conversation can quickly turn into a heated debate. Social media may amplify division, with individuals encountering posts and comments that may trigger anger, frustration, or anxiety. For many, this polarization can affect their relationships and contribute to a sense of isolation post-election.

Psychological Impact: The feeling of being surrounded by polarizing viewpoints can cause stress and discomfort. This division can lead to social anxiety, as people worry about the potential fallout from expressing their opinions. The constant need to defend one's beliefs can also increase overall stress levels.

How to Manage It: It's essential to remember that it's okay to disengage from discussions that are unproductive or toxic. Practice active listening, respect differing viewpoints, and when possible, steer conversations away from political debates. If you find that political discussions are damaging your mental well-being, consider taking a step back from these conversations by leaving or not participating.

3. Fear of the Unknown

As elections approach, many people experience a fear of the future. The uncertainty about the outcome and what it could mean for personal and societal well-being can lead to a sense of dread and anxiety. Will the candidate or policy you support win? What will happen if the outcome is not what you hoped for?

Psychological Impact: Fear of the unknown can be paralyzing. It creates feelings of powerlessness and can lead to constant worry about potential outcomes. This can lead to physical symptoms like headaches, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues as discussed above.

How to Manage It: While it's natural to feel uncertain, it's important to focus on the present and what you can control. Practice mindfulness techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, to help reduce anxiety. It may also help to talk to someone about your fears—sometimes voicing concerns can help put them in perspective.

4. Vicarious Stress

Even if you don't consider yourself particularly political, you may find that the emotions of those around you affect your own mental state. Friends, family, and co-workers may express anxiety, frustration, or excitement, which can impact your own emotional wellbeing. The tension in the air can increase your own stress levels, even if you aren't directly involved in the election process.

Psychological Impact: Vicarious stress can arise from being in close proximity to others who are highly engaged in election-related issues. This can lead to feeling drained or emotionally overwhelmed, especially if you're trying to manage your own stress levels.

How to Manage It: Protect your mental space by setting healthy boundaries with those who are particularly stressed or vocal about the election. Politely decline to engage in stressful conversations, and prioritize self-care activities to recharge. It may also be helpful to find individuals who offer support during these times.

5. Election Fatigue

After weeks or months of campaigning, debates, and advertisements, it's common to experience "election fatigue." This fatigue is marked by a feeling of exhaustion from the emotional rollercoaster of election season. It can make it difficult to focus on anything else and leave people feeling apathetic or disconnected from the process altogether.

Psychological Impact: Election fatigue can lead to burnout. People may feel disengaged, apathetic, or just plain tired of the political discourse. This can affect their sense of purpose and motivation.

How to Manage It: It's essential to pace yourself. Allow yourself to tune out when necessary and engage in restorative activities like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Consider focusing on smaller actions that can make a positive difference, such as volunteering or encouraging others to vote, rather than feeling overwhelmed by the larger political landscape.

Role of Counselors in Election Stress

Many emotions may arise following the election, ranging from anxiety to uncertainty to relief. This can influence our thoughts and emotions, as well as our interactions with those around us. These are all important things that can be discussed and worked through with your counselor.

Identifying Triggers: You and your counselor can pinpoint triggers related to post-election stress. This can help you be better prepared for the emotions you may be feeling following the election. Together, you can find strategies for managing your emotions and reactions and find more peace.

Coping Strategies: You and your counselor can foster healthy coping mechanisms to help ease feelings of post-election stress. Finding the right coping mechanisms can be difficult, which is why your counselor is here to help!

Mindfulness Techniques: Your counselor can help you gain perspective on what is in your control and what is not by practicing mindfulness techniques. This can help you find balance and peace in times of stress and uncertainty.

Conclusion

Election stress is a very real phenomenon that affects many people during political seasons. The pressure of information overload, societal division, uncertainty about the future, and vicarious stress can take a toll on our mental well-being. By setting boundaries, engaging in self-care, and maintaining perspective, we can better manage these stresses and navigate the election season with greater resilience.

Remember, your mental health matters just as much as your political involvement. By prioritizing both, you can maintain a healthy balance during election times and beyond. To take the first step in making this change in your life, call or text our office to schedule with a therapist today!