Pooja Lakshman, a psychiatrist and author, along with Jessie Gold, also a psychiatrist and wellness advocate, and Jessica Gaddy, a therapist, dive into the emotional landscape following the election results. They discuss the high levels of stress related to politics, emphasizing the need for self-care and setting boundaries. Personal stories illustrate how political divides impact relationships, and coping strategies include mindful communication and leveraging music and news for emotional balance. The trio offers insights on managing anxiety in these turbulent times.
A significant percentage of U.S. adults experience stress related to politics, highlighting the intertwining of personal well-being and political events.
Developing internal resources and focusing on controllable aspects of life can help individuals cope with political stress and promote emotional resilience.
Deep dives
The Impact of Election Stress
Election-related stress manifests differently among individuals, influenced by personal circumstances and broader societal changes. For many, such as those already experiencing life challenges, the political climate adds an additional layer of uncertainty and anxiety. Reports indicate that a significant percentage of U.S. adults are stressed about the country's future, revealing how political events intertwine with personal well-being. This compounding of stress highlights a need for coping strategies that address both political and personal issues concurrently.
Navigating Emotional Responses
Emotional responses to election outcomes, such as numbness and fear, can be seen as trauma reactions, particularly for those feeling a deep sense of betrayal or loss. Individuals may encounter overwhelming feelings that may manifest physically, leading to symptoms like tension and headaches. The sense of moral injury among affected communities can exacerbate these feelings, isolating individuals and making it difficult to engage in constructive conversation. Understanding these emotional dynamics is crucial in helping individuals process their feelings in a healthy way.
Strategies for Emotional Resilience
Developing internal resources can serve as a protective mechanism against external stressors, including those stemming from political events. Individuals are encouraged to focus on aspects of their lives they can control, such as personal reactions, self-care practices, and relationships. Techniques like the serenity prayer emphasize distinguishing between controllable and uncontrollable factors, fostering a sense of empowerment amidst chaos. These strategies can wire emotional resilience, allowing individuals to find grounding in tumultuous times.
Building Supportive Relationships
Navigating relationships during politically charged times requires establishing clear boundaries and recognizing the nature of different friendships. Engaging with friends or family members who share similar values can create safe spaces for open discussions, while setting limits with others safeguards mental health. Finding common ground in shared experiences, rather than divisive political conversations, can also foster connection. Ultimately, the focus on maintaining supportive relationships reinforces the importance of emotional well-being in the face of external pressures.
The election results are in, and Donald Trump will be the next president of the United States. Responses to the outcome have been mixed. Some Americans are devastated while some are jubilant.
An October survey by the American Psychological Association found that 77 percent of U.S. adults report the future of the nation as a significant source of stress in their lives. Some 69 percent said the 2024 election in particular was a source of significant stress.
We discuss how we can cope with stress and anxiety related to politics, and how to navigate political divides in our personal lives and as a country.