Election Anxiety: Managing Stress During Election Season

October 22, 2024 PCI Centers

Election season can be a highly stressful time for many Americans. A Pew Research Center poll from early 2024 revealed that 65% of adults in the U.S. frequently feel exhausted by politics, and 55% often experience anger due to political discussions (Infield, 2024). Even among the most politically engaged, a staggering 72% report feeling chronically exhausted by the political climate (Infield, 2024). This anxiety can seep into personal relationships and daily life, creating emotional strain and mental fatigue.

The Impact of Election Anxiety on Mental Health

Anxiety during election season not only affects our emotional well-being but can also strain personal relationships. According to Pew’s data, 61% of U.S. adults find it stressful and frustrating to talk about opposing political views with family, friends, and coworkers (Infield, 2024). This type of stress can lead to various negative outcomes for both mental and physical health. Research indicates that about half of U.S. adults report experiencing sleep disturbances, reduced patience, and excessive rumination due to political concerns (Smith, 2022).

Online harassment stemming from political debates is another significant source of election anxiety, further exacerbating these feelings of distress (Smith, 2022).

Why Election Anxiety Peaks

The heightened political climate during election years can make people feel anxious about their future and the direction the country is headed. Polarizing election issues—such as economic instability, gun violence, and climate change—can trigger anxiety because they directly impact personal lives. A report from the American Psychiatric Association (Conners, 2024) found that:

• 77% of Americans are anxious about the economy
• 73% are anxious about the 2024 elections
• 69% are anxious about gun violence
• 68% are anxious about keeping their families safe

Election anxiety stems from the unpredictable nature of political outcomes, making it difficult for individuals to feel secure about the future. This uncertainty, combined with the high stakes of political decisions, contributes to a pervasive sense of unease.

Coping Strategies to Manage Election Stress

While election anxiety is common, there are ways to manage stress during these challenging times. The American Psychological Association offers the following strategies for coping with election-related stress (Bethune, 2020):

• Let go of what you can’t control: Embrace uncertainty as a part of life and try not to focus too heavily on worst-case scenarios.
• Focus on actionable steps: Engage in activities that allow you to feel empowered, such as voting or advocating for causes that matter to you.
• Take breaks from media: Constant exposure to political news can amplify anxiety. Set limits on how much time you spend watching or reading about the elections.
• Stay connected with loved ones: Instead of arguing about politics, spend time engaging in activities with friends and family, such as taking walks or enjoying hobbies together.

Additional Tips for Reducing Election Anxiety

• Engage in meaningful activities: Spend time on activities that align with your values, whether that’s through civic engagement or personal development (Chatterjee, 2024).
• Reflect on your fears: Understanding what specifically fuels your anxiety about the election can help reduce its grip on you (Chatterjee, 2024).
• Set boundaries: Limit the time and people you discuss politics with to avoid unnecessary stress (Hao, n.d.).
• Stay mindful in discussions: Engage with political conversations with curiosity and the intention to listen, not necessarily to persuade or argue (Hao, n.d.).
• Combat misinformation: Election misinformation can fuel anxiety, so verify facts and approach political claims with a curious and critical mind (Hao, n.d.).

Election anxiety is a natural response to the high stakes of politics, but you don’t have to let it take over your life. By implementing these coping strategies, you can navigate the season with a clearer mind and a greater sense of control. If you live in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Ventura, or Calabasas and are struggling to manage your mental health at this time, don’t hesitate to reach out to PCI today. Our diverse clinical team is ready and equipped to support you from all different angles.