Thanks to the 24-hour news cycle, we’ve all been inundated with coverage of the 2024 election. And now the news of former President Donald Trump’s win has a lot of us worried about what another four years of this dude might actually look like.
But no matter how scared you are, you don’t have to let your election anxiety get the best of you. We spoke with licensed counselor, Tameka Davis, LCPC to get her best advice on how to keep calm and carry on (after you vote, of course).
Look Away
Davis says one of the best things you can do for your mental health in the coming days and weeks is unplug. Just because the networks plan to devote hours and hours of coverage to every angle of the election night story doesn’t mean you have to watch all night long.
“Give yourself an allotted amount of time to pay attention to [news coverage],” she says. “Put a time limit on your exposure.”
If you want to watch something, check out our list of TV shows and movies that will take your mind off the coverage.
Find Your People
If you’re not in the mood for uncomfortable conversations with people who don’t share your political views, Davis recommends you do yourself a favor and don’t engage with them – this includes your uncle who thinks aliens are influencing the election results from outer space.
“Stay away from conversations with people who are going to piss you off,” she said. “You’ll be glad you did.”
Instead, lean on your trusted friends and family members who will help you take your mind off of what is at stake – at least for a little while.
Look For The Gray
Yes...the presidential election was a choice between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. But Davis challenges us to find the gray area. There are a lot of down-ballot races that are just as important.
“Think about how your local elected officials can impact your community,” she said. “Or find a way to get involved yourself, whether it’s a youth mentoring program or a local food bank.”
Get Active
If you feel like there’s nothing you can do, tie up your sneakers and get moving. Take a walk, ride your bike, do yoga or hit a few tennis balls to manage your election anxiety. According to the Mayo Clinic, any form of exercise can help relieve stress by stimulating the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that help you deal with pain and elevate your mood.
Lean on Your Faith
When you feel your stress level going up, don’t underestimate the power of your faith. Read a passage from a spiritual text, say a prayer, or listen to your favorite gospel song – anything that will help you let go and let God.