As the elections unfold and results start to come in, it’s natural to feel anxious or uncertain about the future. Here are some ways to manage election stress and anxiety while holding onto hope and possibility.
- Acknowledge Your Emotions: Take time to notice and validate how you feel, whether its anxiety, frustration, uncertainty, or other emotions. All of your emotions are valid.
- Go Vote! If you haven’t yet, your voice matters—go vote and participate in shaping the future. Every vote counts. This is the single most important thing that is within your control today that is connected to your health and wellbeing.
- You’ve Voted, Now Take a Moment for Yourself: If you’ve voted, you’ve already made your voice heard and contributed to shaping a healthier future for yourself and others. Now, allow yourself space to take in the significance of your action, to reflect on how far we have come and on the hope for the future.
- Breathe & Ground: Pause, take a deep breath, and focus on the present moment. Ground yourself in what you can control—whether it’s checking in on others, spending time with loved ones, actively listening, helping people get to the polls, or making GOTV calls.
- Connect with Community: Share your feelings with others who understand. Together, we are stronger. Together, we heal.
- Focus on What You Can Influence: Shift your attention to the actions you can take—your vote, your voice, and the impact you can make locally.
- Practice Gratitude: Even in uncertain times, reflect on the things you’re grateful for. It’s a simple but powerful way to find balance.
- Hold Onto Hope: Hope is what sustains us through every challenge. It’s the strength we draw from each other and the belief that change is possible. Connect with memories or experiences of things you have overcome alone and in community. Keep pushing forward, knowing that even in the hardest times, with community and others we can build a better tomorrow. “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”– Desmond Tutu
- Lean on Your Faith, Spirituality or Connection with Something Greater than Yourself: In times of uncertainty, turn to your faith or spiritual practices for comfort and guidance. Whether through prayer, meditation, or reflection, finding solace in something greater than yourself can help restore peace and strengthen hope for the future.
- If feelings of stress and anxiety become overwhelming and you are unable to manage them on your own, call or text 988 for support.
Remember, you are not alone. We are in this together!For more grounding and coping strategies, go to: