The presidential election is seriously stressing people outDate: 11/4/2016 SPRINGFIELD – There is plenty to stress out the average American today – financial issues, work, family obligations, health concerns and many other stressors. Now, add to that the presidential election.
There has never been quite such an election as the hotly debated, contentious, mudslinging 2016 presidential race. And, according to the American Psychological Association, it’s stressing out Americans.
In an online survey among adults 18-plus living in the United States, the APA survey, conducted by Harris Poll, found that 52 percent of American adults report that the 2016 election is a very or somewhat significant source of stress. In addition, adults who use social media are more likely than adults who do not to say the election is a very or somewhat significant source of stress (54 percent vs. 45 percent, respectively).
Election stress even differs among the generations with millennials and “matures” among those most likely to say the election is a very or somewhat significant source of stress (56 percent vs. 59 percent, respectively) – significantly more than Generation Xers (45 percent) but not boomers (50 percent).
“When our attention is drawn to differences and tensions that may have no easy or immediate resolution, it is understandable that people experience higher distress levels,” said psychologist Kent Higgins, PhD, at Baystate Medical Center.
Managing your stress
The APA offer the following tips to help people manage their stress related to the election:
• If the 24-hour news cycle of claims and counterclaims from the candidates is causing you stress, limit your media consumption. Read just enough to stay informed.
• Turn off the newsfeed or take a digital break. Take some time for yourself, go for a walk, or spend time with friends and family doing things that you enjoy.
• Avoid getting into discussions about the election if you think they have the potential to escalate to conflict. Be cognizant of the frequency with which you’re discussing the election with friends, family members or coworkers.
• Stress and anxiety about what might happen is not productive.
• Channel your concerns to make a positive difference on issues you care about. Consider volunteering in your community, advocating for an issue you support or joining a local group. Remember that in addition to the presidential election, there are state and local elections taking place in many parts of the country, providing more opportunities for civic involvement.
• Whatever happens on Nov. 8, life will go on. Our political system and the three branches of government mean that we can expect a significant degree of stability immediately after a major transition of government. Avoid catastrophizing, and maintain a balanced perspective.
• Vote. In a democracy, a citizen’s voice does matter. By voting, you will hopefully feel you are taking a proactive step and participating in what for many has been a stressful election cycle. Find balanced information to learn about all the candidates and issues on your ballot (not just the presidential race), make informed decisions and wear your “I voted” sticker with pride.
“The APA’s suggestions for this situation appear sound and useful for those finding themselves stressed over the coming election and its impact on our lives after Nov. 8,” said Higgins.
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