8 Strategies for Managing Post-Election Anxiety

This year’s election season was extremely tense, and the aftermath may feel even heavier. The outcome of the presidential election has triggered waves of anxiety and fear, especially for those who identify as women, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, and anyone from communities historically marginalized in the U.S.

Many folks are feeling a sense of unease as we face a future that may feel uncertain or even hostile. Concerns over what will change in the next four years, are driving heightened levels of anxiety and distress. While it’s okay and completely understandable to be overwhelmed, staying stuck in a state of despair isn’t going to be helpful, for you individually or for your community as a whole.

The intense political divide in our country adds to this stress. Many people are now confronted with the challenging realization that friends, family, classmates, neighbors, and coworkers hold vastly different political beliefs. This division can strain relationships and create an emotionally exhausting environment with difficult conversations.

Strategies for Managing Post-Election Anxiety

While it’s natural to feel anxiety when the future is uncertain, there are ways to cope. Here are some ideas for coping with post-election anxiety:

Acknowledge and Name Your Feelings

The first step in managing anxiety is to recognize it. Give yourself permission to feel whatever is coming up for you right now, whether that’s anxiety, frustration, or even anger. Remind yourself that your feelings are a valid response to a stressful situation, especially when personal rights and the wellbeing of communities you care about are at stake.

Focus on What You Can Control

While national policies may feel overwhelming, focusing on areas you can influence can help create a sense of stability. When we work together, we can achieve much more than when we work individually. Often, this means working locally to improve our communities and act on the values we care about. This might mean joining groups that work toward causes you believe in, volunteering, or participating in local actions. Even small actions can remind you of the power you hold, both individually and collectively.

Set Boundaries with News and Social Media

Constant news and social media updates can amplify stress. Consider setting limits on how often you check for updates or scrolling through your social feeds. Try allotting specific times to catch up on news rather than continually checking, which can provide you a much-needed break. Give yourself permission to step away from conversations that increase your stress, whether online or in-person.

Engage in Activities that Bring Comfort and Joy

In difficult times, leaning into what makes you feel grounded and safe can offer balance. Spend time with friends or loved ones who provide comfort, engage in hobbies, exercise, or practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. These activities can provide a momentary mental break and help reset your nervous system.

Seek Connection with Like-Minded People

Recognizing that you’re not the only person who cares about this can help ease feelings of isolation. There are people in your community who are fighting for the causes you care about, and now is a perfect time to join their work.

Work with a Therapist for Extra Support

Having a dedicated space to process your thoughts and feelings is invaluable. A therapist can help you navigate post-election anxiety, offering personalized coping strategies and a nonjudgmental place to express fears or frustrations.

Practice Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

Mindfulness techniques, like meditation or journaling, can anchor you in the present and help you process feelings without judgment. Remember to be gentle with yourself—post-election anxiety is difficult, and no “perfect” way exists to handle it. Give yourself grace as you cope.

Plan for the Future with Small, Sustainable Goals

Feeling unprepared or overwhelmed about the future can increase anxiety. It may be helpful to break down your goals into smaller, achievable steps. Whether it’s finding a community to join, having hard conversations with people in your life, or working toward specific activism goals, setting small objectives can help you feel a greater sense of control and accomplishment.

Ultimately, focusing on the values and people that support your mental health and personal growth is a choice you have the right to make.

Are you overwhelmed by stress after the recent election? Remember that you don’t have to face this anxiety alone—support exists. You deserve to feel safe, grounded, and affirmed as you navigate this moment, one day at a time. If you’re looking for extra support, we can help.

Looking for extra support? Contact us here to get started.