For those who have also been glued to the presidential election results, it is exhausting. The amount of anxiety that I feel as the screen loads the data is indescribable. As the hours tick by and we get closer to finding out the results, it is important to take care of yourself and your mental health as well as the people around you. Here are some recommended self-care methods from Dr. Aderonke Pederson (Northwestern University psychiatrist), Sheila Robinson-Kiss (clinical social worker and therapist), and Amy Morin (psychotherapist and editor-in-chief of Verywell Mind).
Take extended media breaks.
Watching the results will most definitely provoke a shortened temper, sleep deprivation, anxiety and depression. Constantly scrolling through media sources can be toxic and most definitely unnecessary. Personally, I focus on my work and getting chores done before checking on the election.
Map out what you can and can’t control.
Personally, I like to make lists about everything. This includes constructing a list of all the things I’m worrying about- and what I can and can’t control. Election results are out of your control. Allow yourself to focus on things you actually can control and provide yourself some stress relief.
Do healthy, happy things
These experts suggest eating healthy, exercising, practicing mindfulness and sleeping well in order to take care of your mental health during this stressful time. Do things that make you happy because 1.) it’s a great distraction from the anxiety and 2.) it makes the day go by faster (and closer to finally getting the results!). Today I went for a run and to the gym to clear my head and get some fresh air. I restricted myself from checking on the results during this time of self-care. I definitely recommend going out for a walk, watching a show or movie, and eating one of your favorite snacks!
Lean on your support system
Give your friends, family, therapist and loved ones a call right now (if they’re beneficial to your mental health, of course). Talking to people about your worries and feelings is guaranteed to make the both of you feel better! This can also serve as a great distraction as you talk about funny TikToks you found and some good food you ate today! Talking to them also reminds you that you are not alone during this stressful time. This week has been extremely tough so I’ll be heading back home for the weekend to spend time with my close friends, boyfriend, and family.
Acknowledge the importance of mental health.
Your mental health is a crucial component to your overall well-being. It is also the part of us that we take for granted the most. “People in a mental health crisis should care for themselves just as they would if they were physically ill,” and this includes distancing yourself from situations that make you extremely stressed out- like the election (Bondy). Remember: a happy mind is a happy body.
And there you have out! I urge anyone who’s feeling extremely overwhelmed and anxious because of the election to try these methods out. Your mind and body will thank you later for remembering to take care of yourself.
To read more on self-care tips during the election, be sure to check out the rest of this article: nbcnews.com/know-your-value/feature/we-anxiously-wait-final-election-results-therapists-share-5-self-ncna1246454
