Now that the election is over, how are you feeling? Whether your side won or lost, most Americans can agree that it’s been a long, trying path to the White House, and now some of us are weary and worn out. That makes it a good time to pause to consider your physical and emotional stress levels.
"How we view our stress actually matters to our health," said Dr. Cynthia Ackrill, a stress management expert. "When the brain senses any source of danger, even if it's just a worry of what could be, it will rev up your stress levels to keep you safe.” She advises thanking your brain for doing its job and assuring it you have it from here, which can help stop automatic thought loops and “sort fact from fiction.”
Ready to take a breather and cut yourself a break? Here’s how to cope with post-election stress, according to science.
- Breathe, move and have a plan - Deep, slow belly breathing can reset the nervous system and help you feel more calm, a walk in nature can do the same thing, and bringing an uplifting friend will help lower stress even more. Making a plan with friends is also good, and even better if it gets you outside.
- Do a circle of control exercise - Ackrill explains this is when you list what’s in your control, what you can influence, and what’s beyond your control. Then you try not to worry about what you can’t control.
- Don’t stuff your emotions - It turns out those feelings are important as they tell you that you have needs that need to be met, so denying or ignoring your emotions - whether they’re frustration, grief or anger - doesn’t really help. Work through them by talking to a friend or writing down your feelings.
- Find common ground with others - This is essential for our mental health during times of stress. "Because the election hype has been so divisive, it can strain our relationships, especially with those who don't share our viewpoints," Ackrill explains. "Quite often we share more cares, fears, values than we differ. Finding common ground can build that critical stress antidote - connection."
Source: ABC 7
Scott's Thoughts:
- Oh sure, like it’s just so easy to not worry about something we can’t control!
- So, how many deep breaths do you take before you feel better?
- I don't get wrapped up in all the politics surrounding the election. I vote, I move on.