With Election Day finally over, you might find yourself scrolling social media for hours on end—elated by the results or frustrated with them. The recent 2024 presidential election has not just brought about political changes; it has also stirred significant emotional and mental upheaval across the nation. Many Americans woke up the morning after the election feeling anxious, uncertain, or even ambivalent about the future. Such feelings, as it turns out, are completely valid.
The American Psychological Association conducted a recent poll and found out more than 75% of adults considered the future of the country to be a substantial source of stress. This anxiety has rooted itself deeply during this election season. For many, the race has been about more than just policies; it’s personal. Emotions have run high, fueled by intense campaigning and the prospect of what the election results could mean for various aspects of life.
Autumn McAllister, the director of emergency services at Lakeview Center, pointed out the intense fatigue many feel post-election. “You can have compassion fatigue, stress fatigue—all of it,” she explained, acknowledging how the election can impact even those not directly involved in politics. According to experts, feeling strong emotions after such events is not just normal but also part of processing what one has experienced.
Dr. Nicole Tarui, psychiatrist at El Camino Health, echoed similar sentiments. "It’s important to recognize how you’re feeling, but it’s about processing those emotions, whatever the outcome may be," she stated. One way to approach this processing is by journaling. According to Dr. Tarui, spending just 10-15 minutes daily to jot down worries and fears can be quite liberative. Doing so also provides the frame to close the chapter on those emotions for the day and revisit them later if needed.
Social connections tend to get strained during election season, as political discussions can often lead to disagreements. McAllister advises people to be mindful of their boundaries and limits when discussing politics. "It’s perfectly okay to give yourself permission to step back from conversations you can't handle. Know your limits,” she said.
And it’s easy to forget about self-care when the world seems so outside the norm, but experts stress its importance. Taking time to engage with your loved ones, away from screens and social media, can significantly improve how one feels. Whether it’s grabbing coffee with friends, indulging in hobbies, or simply being outdoors, getting off social media can do wonders for mental clarity.
“Spend time with someone you care about. Being with family or friends can be restorative,” suggested Dr. Richard E. Cytowic, who is also a clinical professor of neurology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He warned against the dangers of dwelling on intense political content; the bombardment from social media and round-the-clock coverage can heighten anxiety levels. “Log off as much as possible. Now's the opportunity to do something else,” he noted.
Individuals may be inclined to seek escapism through various hobbies to refocus their minds away from the anxiety. Cytowic referred to the Dutch practice called Niksen, wherein taking time to do nothing—letting your mind wander without focus—can actually rejuvenate mental health. Simply watching the trees sway or clouds float by, giving your brain permission to relax can provide significant benefits.
Coping mechanisms can vary from one person to the next, but incorporating small mindful techniques can go a long way. Breathing exercises serve as excellent tools for calming anxiety as well. The 4-7-8 technique, where one inhales through the nose for four counts, holds for seven, and exhales through the mouth for eight, features prominently among these. “Repeats of this four times can lower anxiety quickly,” Dr. Patel remarked.
Physical activities, too, can help ease the mental burden. Whether it is stretching, walking, or other forms of exercise, getting the body moving tends to uplift the spirits. Reconnections are equally important; maintaining ties with supportive friends and family can make all the difference. It’s fundamental to surround yourself with people who provide comfort and assurance.
Dr. Kavita Patel, who has worked at various capacities within health policy and public engagement, emphasized the importance of being compassionate to oneself. “It’s okay to feel upset or anxious. Acknowledge those feelings without judgment,” she stated, underscoring how one should recognize their emotional responses during turbulent times.
Beyond individual strategies, experts implore all citizens to engage civically as well—reaching out to your community and focusing on collective healing feels more imperative than ever. The widespread discontent surrounding the recent elections has likely lingered, but taking constructive steps toward rebuilding community bonds, engaging peacefully with differing opinions, and fostering constructive dialogues remains necessary.
It’s important to highlight the history of divisions we face. Many have expressed fears about the repercussions of our current political frameworks and extreme polarization. Fulfilling conversations about social justice, civil rights, democracy, and economic disparities can aid groups desperately trying to navigate through this complex web of political contention. Coming together to understand distinct viewpoints gives communities the power they need to heal.
Indeed, this notion of reaching out becomes exceedingly relevant when we look at our tense social fabric. Dr. Patel was clear about our country's history. “Healing our national divisions will require sustained effort from leaders and citizens alike,” she insisted. Trusting institutions, engaging candidly with each other without polarizing accusations, and recognizing our shared humanity should guide rebuilding efforts.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as the political turbulence continues to build. Deep politicking and divisions can make the average American feel disconnected and angry at not just each other, but themselves. The goal now? Focus on rekindling connections—within families, communities, and across the nation.
The path forward won’t be straightforward, but history shows the resilience of the American spirit. Each of us holds the responsibility of contributing to the narrative of unity, trust, and collective purpose. Time and again, citizens have risen through hardships, and with conscious choices, we can keep claiming the narrative of inclusivity and healing.
