Helpful Tips for Coping

The recent presidential election cycle was a significant source of stress for many Americans. According to the American Psychological Association, more than half of Americans polled experienced election stress. The stress was experienced across all party lines, age categories, and racial and ethnic groups. Here are some helpful tips for copying with election stress.

• Take a break from news and social media.
• Be aware of how much you are talking about the election and take note if you need to take a break from such conversations.
• Look for opportunities to volunteer in your community, advocate for issues that are important with you.
• Rather than focusing your thoughts about what might happen in the future, try to remain in the present and focus on what is happening now.
• If you find yourself involved in a conversation about the election that could turn into a conflict over opinions, give yourself permission to end the conversation.
• Incorporate self-care activities into your daily routine such as getting enough sleep, exercising, eating healthy foods, spending time with friend and loved ones.
• Avoid distracting yourself from your emotions by drinking excessively or using drugs. Instead, find positive outlets to manage the stress.

-Adapted from the American Psychological Association