The aftermath of a highly charged election can leave many of us feeling anxious, frustrated, or even fearful about the future. In a recent interview with CBS News, one of our Psych4U psychiatrists shared valuable advice on navigating post-election stress. Here’s a breakdown of their insights to help you process and move forward.
1. It’s Okay to Feel Anxious
The first step in coping is acknowledging your feelings. Whether you’re feeling sad, angry, or worried, give yourself permission to sit with those emotions. Our psychiatrist emphasized the importance of “giving yourself grace” and recognizing that anxiety is a natural and necessary emotion.
Take the time you need to reflect and process. There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline for healing. For some, a day may be enough; for others, it might take longer. The key is to allow yourself that space without judgment.
2. Seek Social Support
Anxiety can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Connecting with trusted friends or family members who understand your feelings can be incredibly grounding. This is especially important during divisive times when relationships may be strained.
Our psychiatrist advised finding people you feel comfortable talking to. Open dialogue can help ease your anxieties and provide a sense of connection.
3. Practice Empathy and Patience
Post-election, it’s common to encounter people with differing viewpoints. While it may be tempting to react out of anger or frustration, our psychiatrist encourages patience. “Give time and space to people that you disagree with,” they said.
Ultimately, America has weathered many divisive elections, and families and communities often find a way to heal and come back together. This requires time and a collective effort to rebuild understanding.
4. Manage the “What Ifs”
One of the most challenging aspects of post-election stress is the fear of the unknown. What if policies change? What if my rights are affected? While these are valid concerns, dwelling on hypotheticals can lead to overwhelming anxiety.
Instead, our psychiatrist suggests focusing on what you can control. Engage in activities that ground you in the present moment:
- Exercise
- Meditation or yoga
- Cooking
- Getting a good night’s sleep
These practices not only shift your focus but also improve your mental health.
5. Know When to Seek Help
If you find that your anxiety is becoming unmanageable, Psych4U is here for you. We accept insurance and offer quick appointment scheduling. Once you fill out our intake form, we can book your first telehealth session within 48 hours.
Reaching out is easy—just call Psych4U at (954)-71–6280 to get started. We’re here to help you navigate these challenging moments with personalized, professional support.
If you need immediate assistance, you can also contact the National 988 Lifeline, offering free, confidential support 24/7.
Closing Thoughts
In the wake of a polarizing election, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health. Take time to process, connect with others, and focus on what’s within your control. Remember, you’re not alone. With time and support, we can all navigate these challenging moments and come out stronger.
Let us help you take the next step. Reach out to Psych4U today.
See full interview here: