MOMENTSWITHMAUDE.COM

Election seasons often stir up intense emotions, both hopeful and anxious.

It’s natural to feel this way because elections shape so much of what our future could look like. For many, the stakes feel personal and immediate. The lead-up can bring excitement and anticipation, but as voting day gets closer, it’s not uncommon for those emotions to turn into stress. Questions start swirling: What will happen to our communities? How will our loved ones be affected? What does this mean for our daily lives?

Election anxiety has become more common, partly because of the extensive media coverage and social media conversations that make it feel like there’s something new and urgent happening every minute. This constant flood of information can be overwhelming and exhausting, even if we try to stay level-headed. People may feel emotionally invested, not only because of what the election represents but also because it brings to light many deep-seated concerns, like justice, equality, security, and the well-being of future generations.

For those who feel especially invested, the thought of outcomes can add another layer of pressure. While we may not be able to control the results, we can control how we respond to them, taking care of ourselves and each other in the process. Finding peace with uncertainty during this time is about learning to hold these strong emotions while finding ways to ground ourselves in calm.

Self-Care Strategies:

1.    Acceptance

• Practice: Recognize that certain things are beyond personal control. Accepting this can free us from excessive worry over things we cannot change, helping us focus on positive actions within our power.

2.    Gratitude

• Practice: Take time each day to reflect on what’s going well and what you’re grateful for, even during difficult times. Focusing on gratitude can shift attention from fear or frustration toward the good things happening around you.

3.    Hope

• Practice: Hold onto hope as a grounding force. Trust that positive change is possible and that every small, positive action contributes to the whole. This can help shift from despair to proactive, hope-filled engagement.

4.    Set Boundaries for News Consumption

• Limit news to specific times of the day or set a timer to avoid endless scrolling. Try sticking to reliable sources and avoid sensational headlines or opinion-based content that may amplify stress

5.    Practice Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises

• Regular deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness exercises can help calm the nervous system. Try techniques like the 4-7-8 breathing method (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 8) or guided meditation apps.

6.    Take Action to Feel Empowered

• Channel your energy productively by volunteering for causes you believe in, signing up to help on election day, or getting involved in local community efforts. Taking action helps ease feelings of helplessness.

7.    Limit Election Talk with Friends and Family

• Letting others know you’re taking a break from political discussions is okay. Let them know you prioritize your mental health and gently steer conversations to other topics if politics arise.

8.    Focus on Self-Care Rituals

• Engage in activities that bring comfort and joy – whether it is cooking, exercising, or reading. Grounding yourself in familiar and enjoyable routines can help you stay centered.

9.    Get Outside and Connect with Nature

• Spending time outside, even just for a short walk, can be incredibly grounding. Nature helps to reset the nervous system, reduce stress, and bring a new perspective.

10.  Stay Present

• Anxiety often comes from focusing on what might happen. Practice bringing yourself back to the present moment by identifying three things you see, hear, and feel to refocus your mind.

To wrap up, remember that in the midst of election anxiety, you are not alone. Grounding yourself in daily practices and focusing on what’s within your control can be a powerful way to find calm. When things feel overwhelming, take a deep breath, reconnect with your values, and remember that every small action, rooted in kindness and hope, contributes to the greater good.

It's okay to take breaks, set boundaries, and focus on what truly nourishes you. Let this season be a reminder of your resilience and your ability to find peace, even in uncertain times. Hold on to the inner calm—it’s a source of strength that you can return to, again and again, no matter what.