As I write this we are just beginning the morning of what will surely be a historic day. The 2024 election is upon us and a lot is at stake. All week I have been assisting my clients to wrestle with the anxiety and anticipation for this moment, as I wrestle with my own. Our health has been threatened as a planet on many levels, and our nation here in the US has been divided between party lines and racial injustice. We are all asking, “what next?”
While it is true throughout this year and in this election there is a lot we cannot control, we are not completely paralyzed in our actions. In this post, I will share some ways to manage this election anxiety as we focus in on what is within our control, and make space for the emotions that arise. This week is a time for grace with ourselves. Here’s hoping these tips can be helpful in bringing peace in the difficult moments.
Here is a list of helpful tips to keep in mind this week.
VOTE and use your power to advocate, then trust that you have done enough. One thing within this election that is completely within our control, is our ability to use our voice, express our needs, and participate actively in the democracy of our country. We can encourage our friends and family to do the same and we can do what is in our power to encourage, inspire, and reduce the barriers to getting others to the polls. If you have done any of these things, give yourself some appreciation for exercising your rights and for encouraging others to do the same. You have done what was within your power, and it’s time to trust that your voice will make a difference, that your actions are meaningful, and in this moment today you have done enough.
Anxiety around knowing our voice was heard is common. Some states have made it easy to check that our votes were approved and accepted if you voted early, and knowing this can reduce the anxiety of wondering. Check if your state is participating in this program by looking on www.ballottrax.com to check the status of your vote. I know for myself this was a huge relief to know my vote had gotten through. Once you know this accept that you have done all that is within your control and celebrate the fact that you expressed your desires and needs. It means so much that you were an active participant in this election. Try to focus on what you have control of, and let the rest be.
Start the day slowly- This morning and for the rest of the week, try to start the day slowly, engaging in some relaxing activity to calm your nerves. Begin the morning by enjoying your favorite beverage, writing a gratitude list, taking a few moments outside to just observe your surroundings, meditating or moving your body in a way that feels good. Make sure you do any of these slow soothing activities before turning on your screens. This practice on specifically stressful days can be the way to set the tone for a more peaceful experience and can help to reduce anxiety before it has a chance to ramp up.
Take a break- Plan to take a break from the news, and from social media. Until all the votes are counted we won’t know the outcome and it just breads anxiety to keep watching and waiting. Hearing the commentary as the votes come in builds suspense and anticipation that can send us into a panic, or can make us feel very uncentered. Take the afternoon off of the screens, or if you must check, set timers for yourself for 5 minutes at a time and hold yourself accountable for logging off. Do something soothing after any exposure to the news today and this week.
Make time to chill out- this time is especially stressful so planning in advance some relaxing activities can help to reduce some of that anxiety. Think about what makes you feel most at ease and plan in that selfcare time today. Make this a non-negotiable aspect of your day, and write it in your calendar. Even five minutes of deep breathing or a 20 minute walk outside can make an incredible difference on our moods. If you can plan a relaxing activity with a loved one, even better.
Talk to a trusted non-judgmental person in your life- Arguing about politics today is not going to soothe any anxious nerves. Call your supportive friends and loved ones and have a chat about your hopes for the future, or anything else that you are hopeful and grateful for. Have a laugh, chat about life, or discuss a new show you’ve been watching lately that has been a helpful distraction. Share your feelings, but also make room for some supportive and thoughtful conversation to help take your mind off the vote today.
Process your emotions- Self-awareness is key to processing the emotions we feel. It’s okay to be angry, sad, or any slew of emotions today. There is a lot on the line. Noticing your feelings and giving them room to be felt is helpful in helping them pass. Allow yourself some time to process your nerves with a trusted person whether it be a loved one or a therapist, and get it out. Journaling and self-reflection during this time can be especially helpful this week. Also remembering that these difficult feelings will pass and you will get through this is helpful in moments of extreme anxiety. You are not alone in your feelings, know that support is out there to help you sit with these difficult moments.
Get some sleep- Sleep is also incredibly important this week. Lack of sleep will increase emotionality and can send us into negative spirals quicker than anything. If your mind is racing before bed, take some time to write out your thoughts. Try progressive muscle relaxation to release tension in the muscles to prepare you for sleep, and turn off screens at least an hour before you plan to go to bed. Light stretching or gentle exercise such as yoga before bed can be helpful in inducing sleep, and being around soothing scents can also help. Do what you can to lighten your schedule this week to allow for increased rest, and take care of your basic needs.
It is the season for self-care. If you need more assistance finding grounding and sitting with these heavy feelings, please reach out for support from loved ones or a therapist. WildSense is accepting new clients at this time to assist you in all that may be coming up during this unpredictable time. You are not in this alone. We will get through these difficult times together.
Take care and stay well everyone. Whatever the outcome, let’s stay united and vote for change.