GREENSBORO, N.C. — As early voting is underway, many people are feeling more anxious than ever. Today, we'll explore why election stress is so common and, more importantly, how to manage it.
Elections tap into your sense of identity and values. Many people feel that the outcome will significantly affect their lives and the well-being of their families or communities. This can trigger a 'fight-or-flight' stress response, especially when there's uncertainty or intense polarization. The media coverage can also heighten these feelings, making it hard to escape.
There are several strategies you can use to manage election stress. First, limit your exposure to the 24-hour news cycle and social media because constant updates can heighten stress. It's also helpful to practice mindfulness or deep breathing to stay grounded. Lastly, focus on what you can control—such as voting or volunteering—and make time for self-care, whether exercising, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
Here are tips for parents to manage their election stress around their kids. Parents should model calm behavior. It's important to talk to kids openly but in a reassuring way, explaining that elections are part of a process and that it's okay to feel concerned, but there are healthy ways to deal with those emotions. Have the family participate in different family activities that are fun and unrelated to politics to keep everything at home balanced.
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