From an assassination attempt to a candidate drop-out, the 2024 election cycle has been nothing if not eventful. With critical issues like human rights, mental health policies, climate change, and protection of marginalized populations on the line, the stakes feel higher than ever. It’s no surprise that stress is mounting— 73% of US adults are anxious about the upcoming election, according to a 2024 poll by the American Psychiatric Association. This reflects a shared concern about how political outcomes may shape our future. So, if you feel overwhelmed by the political climate, you are not alone. Intense emotions—whether anxiety, fear, or hope—are normal. Here are some tips for managing election-related anxiety, shared by Amanda Fialk, PhD, LCSW, LICSW, Partner & Chief Clinical Officer at The Dorm.
Key Article Takeaways
1. Name the Stress
Acknowledging and validating the stress you may feel is an important part of learning how to cope with these feelings—this can be applied not just to election anxiety, but also to any stressful situation. Being able to name the stressful feelings is a major first step in dealing with your feelings and moving forward.
2. Mind the Media
In this digital age, we are constantly exposed to an overwhelming amount of information, which can be a great source of anxiety (not to mention potential misinformation). Read enough to stay informed, but it is okay to take a step away from it all, especially if engaging with the media is increasing your stress levels.
3. Lend a Hand
Concerns and stress about the future can be channeled into productive activities that are important to you and make a positive difference in the world or your immediate community. Helping others is a great way to build connections, help alleviate any negative feelings you may have about yourself and politics, and help you feel a sense of positive control. A great organization to get involved with is When We All Vote, an initiative created by Michelle Obama to empower individuals across the nation to register to vote, as well as provide civic education to help inform all potential voters.
4. Set Your Boundaries
It is okay to not want to talk about the election with someone else; you are not obligated to continue a conversation if you feel that it could escalate into conflict. If you want to talk about something else, firmly and respectfully say that you do not want to talk about the election and would like to discuss a different topic. It is okay to avoid conversations that may be triggering.
5. Vote
Our voices matter. You can use your voice, and your vote to influence the upcoming election. Taking that proactive step can also help to take away some of the election anxiety, in knowing that you have done your part in making this country a place that reflects your values and the issues that matter to you. If you aren’t yet registered, see if you can register online, in-person, or by mail. After registering, show up to your local poll site on Election Day, Tuesday November 5, 2024, any time from 6am-9pm. You can also request an absentee ballot and vote by mail if you will be away from your state on Election Day. Can’t wait to vote? See if your county offers early in-person or mail-in voting.
6. Take Care of Yourself
Most importantly, make sure to take good care of yourself. Taking a walk, spending time with loved ones, and doing things you enjoy can help distract from the stress that the election may elicit. And of course, remember to breathe.
Here’s more information on The Dorm’s services in young adult anxiety treatment.
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