5 Tips for Managing Election Anxiety 2024: A DC Therapist’s Guide to Handling the Most Stressful Time of the Year
Boo! Jump Scare- The 2024 election is right around the corner, and anxiety about politics is running deep! If you feel stressed reading that, please know that you are not alone. There is a lot that goes into voting in an election and it can bring up a whole array of emotions. While the right to vote can feel empowering and voting enables an opportunity for positive change, it doesn’t mean that’s always the case. Especially during a presidential election, the stakes around the discussion of political issues skyrocket. There is an overwhelming increase of constant media coverage on the news, social media posts, conversations/debates with loved ones, and even challenges that arise from talking politics at work. The headlines are attention-grabbing, the stories are intense, and it can be hard to escape from all the noise. Due to the nature of elections having significant outcomes on the impact of people's lives, there can be a spike in anxiety and stress. Here are my top five tips and strategies as an anxiety therapist in DC to help with managing election anxiety in 2024!
1. Take intentional breaks from social media platforms.
It’s going to be important to be intentional about your news and media consumption. These next couple of months are basically going to be the “busy season” for these forums and media outlets. This is their time to be pumping out content, using attention-grabbing headlines that pull you in, and reporting on anything and everything that could be deemed a news story. So the noise will be loud and while we can’t control what is being released and when it will be published, we can be intentional to the best of our abilities to be mindful of what, where, and when we scroll.
My advice is to take breaks frequently and tap into some somatic sensations that may indicate your need for a break. Is your heart racing reading the latest headline? Are you having trouble taking deep breaths while scrolling your feed during a debate? Consider how your body feels when scanning different platforms you use, and being a mindful social media user, not letting your social media accounts use you! I’d encourage you to also mute certain accounts that you know could be activating. If you have a high-stress job, and your social media accounts tend to spike your system with political anxiety, perhaps consider taking a break from your social media during the workday.
2. Identify Your Support System.
It can be really helpful to share, vent, and process our feelings and thoughts with our loved ones. However, not every person in your life is going to be the right person to talk about politics or even feelings related to election anxiety. Choose people in your life that you feel connected with and people who will facilitate a safe space for perspectives, opinions, and feelings to be shared, such as the many therapists in DC at The Sterling Group. This can be really tough and I want to acknowledge that. On the same note, be mindful of your goal when seeking your support system. Is it to vent and express your feelings? Are you looking for validation and will this be the right person for it? Are you wanting to change someone’s mind or opinion? Knowing ahead of time what your goal is can help you set yourself up for success in creating a support system that may help you feel nurtured and safe during an uneasy time.
3. Protect Your Peace.
You are allowed to set healthy and effective boundaries for yourself. You are allowed to choose what you want and don’t want to engage in. If you find yourself in a conversation with friends, family, coworkers, peers, etc., ask yourself what is going to protect your peace the most? Whether that is simply excusing yourself to the restroom, politely communicating that you have chosen not to discuss politics, or redirecting the conversation to something else. You have the autonomy and power to set boundaries that work for you! Knowing your environment and the people around you can be helpful. For example, if you know that having political discussions is common at your workplace. Try to keep your office door closed, wear headphones while you work in a shared space, and be mindful of who you choose to grab a coffee, or head out on your lunch break with.
4. Redirect Your Attention Toward Things You Are Looking Forward To.
With the election, there are so many things outside of our control. What is going to happen will happen. Worrying about it makes you suffer twice. I know this is easier said than done. I’m wondering if it could be more helpful to engage in activities and behaviors that we have control over and will be serving us at the same time. For example, registering to vote or volunteering at an organization that speaks to you. On the other hand, redirecting your attention to things that are not election-related and joy-related could be really helpful, such as online therapy in Virginia. Fall is officially here! Are there events that you are excited to attend? Would you be open to organizing an outing for you and your friends? Planning an upcoming vacation? Finding a new recipe to test out? Trying a new restaurant or coffee shop? Choosing to engage in activities that bring joy and peace can bring glimmers of hope and encouragement during an otherwise heavy and intense period of time.
With all that said, I, as an anxiety therapist in DC, know that these strategies can’t ‘fix’ our feelings. Remember that coping strategies are meant to help anchor us as we go through the storm. They are not going to take away the storm, but rather, they can help steady our boat. Take it easy, listen to your body, mind, and intuition and what they are trying to tell you. Be kind to yourself and practice giving yourself grace. We are all doing the best we can, and the more skilled you can be with managing election-related anxiety, the more equipped you may feel to handle whatever comes next. Voting for you to take care of yourself this election season!
Start Your Journey with an Anxiety Therapist in DC Today
Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of school and life? You're not alone. If you’re ready to connect with a supportive group of therapists in DC who can help you build valuable skills, find a safe space to express your thoughts and explore your authentic self this school year, it’s time to take the next step. At The Sterling Group, we understand the unique challenges young adults face. Whether you're navigating academic stress, social pressures, or personal growth, online therapy in Virginia can provide the guidance and support you need to thrive. The journey toward healing and resilience may have its ups and downs, but with the right support from an anxiety therapist in DC, you can discover a sense of balance and empowerment. Here’s how you can get started:
Reach out to us for a free consultation.
Schedule your first online therapy session today.
Take that crucial step toward prioritizing your well-being.
Other Therapy Services Offered in Washington, DC & Throughout VA
Our caring therapists in DC offer a variety of services to support you and your mental health needs. If you need individual support, we offer Individual Therapy, Executive Function Support, EMDR Therapy, and IFS Therapy. As well as self-esteem counseling, LGBTQIA+ therapy, life transition counseling, and more!
Our therapists are available for both in-person sessions in Washington, DC, and online therapy in Virginia, making it convenient for you to prioritize healing yourself. We'd love to discuss how we can support your growth in all areas of your life today!
About The Author:
Jane Lim is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and anxiety therapist in D.C. and Virginia. She supports adults in their 20’s and 30’s with online therapy for young adults in Virginia. This way they have the support to navigate challenges in young adulthood. Jane prioritizes creating genuine relationships with her clients so that they can work together on molding a life her clients feel empowered to live.
