How to Take Care of Yourself Post-Election Season

Whatever side of the election we fell on, we all know that the 2024 presidential election in the U.S. has likely brought heightened emotions, stress, and uncertainty for many people. Here are some mental health tips to help you stay grounded and protect your well-being in the days that follow the election.

Practice Self Care

Take time daily for activities that help you unwind and relax—whether that's exercise, spending time outdoors, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that make you feel good. Your mental health needs to be a priority, so make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. If you need ideas for self-care or how to implement that, check out our previous post on Creating a Self-Care Plan.

Limit News & Social Media Consumption

Constant exposure to political news can lead to feelings of anxiety or anger. Consider setting boundaries on how often you check the news or social media and choose reliable sources that don't sensationalize or manipulate emotions. It’s okay to mute or unfollow accounts that cause you stress, whether temporarily or permanently. You can also curate your feed with positive content or accounts that encourage respectful dialogue and solutions-based discussions.

Lean on Your Support System

Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your concerns. It’s important to surround yourself with people who offer support and understanding, especially when political discourse feels overwhelming.

Practice Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises

Mindfulness and deep breathing can help calm your nervous system. When you feel overwhelmed, take a few minutes to close your eyes, focus on your breath, and bring your awareness back to the present moment.

Take Breaks from Election-Related Content

If you find that the election is causing you significant distress, it's okay to step away. Give yourself permission to take breaks from political content and only check in periodically.

Focus on What You Can Control

You can't control the outcome of the election or the actions of others, but you can control how you react to them. Focus on taking actions that align with your values, whether it's voting, volunteering, or getting involved in your community in ways that make a positive impact. 

Find Healthy Distractions

The 24/7 news and social media cycle around the election can be intensely emotionally charged and thinking or worrying about the results can be overwhelming. Allow yourself to step back from that and distract yourself with activities that soothe and support you, such as reading a book, working on a project, or watching a feel good movie. This can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by the chaos around you.

Seek Professional Help & Support if Needed

If you're feeling persistently anxious, depressed, or stressed during this post-election season, it may be helpful to talk to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide strategies to manage stress and build resilience. Contact us today at 630-478-0707 to connect with one of our therapists for support.

Taking care of your mental health during and after the election season is just as important as being an informed voter. Let's make sure that we are caring for our wellbeing today and in the days ahead.