Election Anxiety Running High
This year has been an unprecendented time which will clearly go down in history. With the 2020 elections just a few days away, many people are experienicng an increase in anxiety. While I make it a practice to not talk about politics in my business, this year has been with great exception. Many of my client’s have been feeling uncertain about the world we are living in, which is not solely based on the COVID pandemic but on the 2020 presidential elections. As a citizen of the United States, and a decent human being (I think many would agree) I can definitely relate to these worries.
Some of my clients have recently shared stories with me about how this year's election has affected their lives. I’ve heard stories about how friendships have been destroyed simply because of their different views; stories of family & friends who have lost respect for one another and are no longer speaking because they felt offended and disrespected in relation to their political beliefs. I have witnessed many people to be stressed to the point where they are losing sleep and don’t have the patience to have calm, rational discussions. Client’s have shared with me that they have lost trust in our Country and no longer feel a sense of security. Sadly, these have been some of the noticeable consequences that many are having to manage.
My purpose today is not to share with you my political views or try to convince you of what party to elect. My purpose is however, to help you to get through this electoral time with the least amount of anxiety possible.
I’ve taken a few examples from situations that have put many on high stress alert and gathered some approaches that may be helpful in getting you through this tough time. As I always tell my clients and even friends, take what you believe is helpful and was is not, simply disregard.
Situation: A family or friend is overly persistent on who they think you should vote for and they just won’t back down…
Approach: Thank the person for sharing their views and politely let them know that you will make a decision based on what is important to you and your own beliefs.
Situation: When you are with your family or friends, the topic of politics comes up very often and there is almost always an argument that follows…
Approach: Plan ahead. If you know that a calm discussion cannot take place, then choose to not have the conversation. Say something like, “Let’s talk about something else that is more uplifting today.”
Situation: Your social media feed is spiraling with news on the elections. This stresses you out and you're tired of it!
Approach: Put a limit on the amount of time you spend watching the news or following social media platforms. There is no need to read comments or even add to the feed if you do not see any positive outcome resulting from this.
Situation: You lie in bed and instead of falling fast asleep, you find yourself worrying for hours about what might happen if things do not get any better…
Approach: Take charge of what you do with your thoughts. Just because a thought crosses your mind doesn’t mean you have to stay there. Choose to put in some relaxation and mindful practices to help put you in a calmer mental state (for mindfulness tips go to: https://www.facetofacecounseling.com/blog-1/mindfullness).
Situation: Quiet moments used to be a time for you to gather your thoughts but now with the constant worry and fear, you just want to run away or disconnect from your thoughts.
Approach: You don’t need to fear alone time. Instead, remind yourself that it’s okay to sit with your feelings. There’s no need to hide or run away. How we feel is very much a temporary state. We aren’t angry all the time and we aren’t scared every minute of the day. Give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions come up for you. Set a timer so that you can limit the amount of rumination or negative type thinking. Recognize that feelings do come and go and that you can decide your next step. You can involve yourself in something that is comforting and meaningful for you like reading a book, listening to a podcast or calling up a good friend.
Situation: You’ve lost HOPE in others, in the world, and in society.
Approach: When hope is lost, this can leave you more susceptible to mental health illnesses like Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder or PTSD. Let’s face it, we all look forward to things in life that are meaningful but when that’s gone, it’s easy to question what else exists. Practice reshaping your thinking. This will allow you to see things through a different lens. When we are able to see that there are other options and paths available, we end up pushing past “Catastrophic” thinking and instead we reach toward thoughts that create promise and optimism.
I think everyone would agree that the 2020 election is unlike previous elections. While diversity may not be warmly embraced and openness may not be within arms reach, one thing is clear which is that we must find a way to move forward. If you’re finding it difficult to cope during these challenges times, please reach out to a qualified professional who can support you along the way (contact us as: https://www.facetofacecounseling.com or call Candida @ 917-834-6211).