The presidential election is over, but your feelings about it probably aren’t.
Not only is our country divided by red and blue states, but also by our emotional states. On one end of the spectrum, there are those who are currently feeling elated, proud, relieved, encouraged and celebrating the election results. On the other end of the spectrum, there are those who are feeling despair, shock, numbness, anger and a sense of hopelessness about the outcome. And then there are the rest who find themselves somewhere in the middle. Though people have a variety of different reactions about the election results, there are effective ways to manage the multitude of emotions that may arise.
Acknowledge and Accept Your Feelings
It’s natural to experience a range of emotions in response to outcomes that impact our lives as a country. No matter where you find yourself on the post-election feelings continuum, it’s important to acknowledge how you feel with acceptance and without judgement. Avoiding your emotions can lead to stress and increase distress, so acknowledging and accepting them are key steps toward coping.
Take a Break from Social Media and News Coverage
Continuous exposure to post-election news coverage can intensify emotions that you’re already experiencing. Taking a temporary break from the news and social media for a period of time can serve as a relief and help you manage intense feelings. If you find it difficult to virtually disconnect for long periods of time, try logging off at specific times of the day, disabling notifications to minimize the urge to check updates or limiting your news intake to just one or two media sources or sites. If you find it particularly challenging going completely screen-free, instead of simply putting ‘down’ or ‘away’ the screens, change what’s on the screens. For example, you could switch to a comedy show, a feel-good movie or another favorite video.
Connect with Others For Support
Connecting with others during uncertain times can offer much-needed comfort, support and an outlet to express your thoughts and feelings. Now is a good time to reach out to friends or family members you feel comfortable with to share what you’re experiencing. Consider inviting someone for coffee, dinner or even just initiating a phone call or text. The person on the receiving end of your invitation or phone call will likely be just as glad to connect and have someone to talk to as well. If you don’t feel comfortable reaching out or talking with others, consider expressing your thoughts and feelings though writing or other outlets, such as with art or in a voice memo.
Practice Mindfulness
Election results can be overwhelming, especially when they don’t go as we’d hoped, leaving us feeling a loss of control. Practicing mindfulness can help by bringing us back to the present and focusing on what we can manage in the moment. For example, you can bring your focus to your breathing and take a few slow, deep breaths, noticing the sensation of each inhale and exhale. By focusing on your breath, you’re remind yourself of what is within reach. Though we can’t determine what will unfold over the next ten months, we can decide how to approach the next ten minutes. This simple shift can help you reconnect with a sense of calm and agency in the moment.
Channeling Your Emotions into Action
One of the most empowering ways to process election-related feelings is to take constructive action. Taking action, even if they are in small ways, allows you to transform feelings of helplessness into a greater sense of purpose. Engaging with your community or advocating for a cause you care about can be a source of encouragement and even small efforts can contribute to meaningful change. Consider exploring opportunities to get involved in your community by volunteering, joining local advocacy groups, or supporting causes that align with your values.
Engaging in Self-Care Activities
Prioritizing self-care is important during this time. Self-care doesn’t have to be something extravagant, rather it can be small actionable steps that you can take to help maximize your ability to cope. This includes making time for the basics such as sleeping well, eating nourishing foods, staying active and hydrated. Finding time to engage in hobbies and other activities you find enjoyable are also helpful ways to support your well-being.
Reaching Out
The emotions that follow election results can be understandably complex and intense. By taking time to acknowledge these feelings, reaching out for support, engaging in meaningful action and self-care practices, you can process your emotions constructively and feel more at ease. If you’re facing challenges coping with the outcome of this presidential election, we encourage you to reach out to Tobin Counseling Group for a free consultation; we are here to support you. Remember, it’s okay to take things one step at a time—coping is a journey, and it’s one you don’t have to face alone.
