TMS THERAPY
FDA-cleared, non-medication depression treatment
Daniel Hageman
If you’re feeling stressed about the upcoming election, you’re not alone. A recent survey of U.S. adults from the American Psychological Association (APA) found that 68% of responders say the upcoming election is a “significant source of stress.”
If you’re feeling stressed about the upcoming election, you’re not alone. A recent survey of U.S. adults from the American Psychological Association (APA) found that 68% of responders say the upcoming election is a “significant source of stress.” So-called “ Election Stress Disorder ” is a (non-diagnostic) term for the anxiety and distress that many feel leading up the election. It can look like having trouble sleeping, constantly checking your phone for election-related news, or feeling anxious every time someone brings up politics. Here are 5 tips for getting through the next few weeks.
Your energy is best spent controlling what you can, which is your vote. You might find it helpful to vote as soon as you can, if that helps you mentally check it off your list. Avoid spending time ruminating on things you can’t control, which include the election results, how those around you will vote, and changing the minds of people who leave nasty social media comments.
News on the 2020 election seems to be everywhere, but it’s not impossible to avoid. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try disabling news push notifications on your phone and set aside one block of time a day to follow the coverage, rather than continuously checking in and “doom-scrolling” through coverage. Put your phone down, turn off the TV, and do something else.
It’s easy to keep circling back conversations centered on the election when you’re spending time with friends and family. However, if you need some politics-free time, make it clear to those around you. It’s okay to be honest: “I’m all election-ed out right now, can we talk about something else?” or “It’s making me feel anxious to keep talking about this, can we change the subject?”
Dr. Geoffrey Grammer, Greenbrook’s Chief Medical Officer, says that “If you feel someone you care about is experiencing depression, anger, or fear; is acting in a way that is no longer productive; or is acting differently from their typical behavior, it's okay to reach out. Rather than avoid the subject, you can let them know that you've noticed changes and that you care.”
Stressful events -especially ones that take place over the course of several weeks or months- can exacerbate any underlying mental health conditions. Self-care practices often go neglected in periods of uncertainty, but staying on top of getting adequate sleep, nutritious food, and vitamins can help keep stress levels down.
It’s okay to feel a little stressed right now because of the election, but it’s important to stay on top of your mental health. If you’re already engaged in mental health care, stay engaged. Let your provider know if you have difficulties with sleep or nutrition, you develop thoughts of self-harm, or you notice your symptoms getting worse over time.
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