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    • Florida counselor’s tips for dealing with political anxiety
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    Florida counselor’s tips for dealing with political anxiety

    Harry Posted on

    Whatever the outcome, life will go on. Here’s how to deal with your feelings of choice.

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    No matter who is elected the next president, half the country will be happy, while the other half will probably be miserable.

    It’s a stressful situation no matter which party you support. But there are steps you can take to minimize anxiety.

    as we enter this electionSome Americans continue to question the process. Although there is no evidence of fraud that would change the results in 2020Concerns about voting integrity continue to rise, as do fears of a repeat of the mob attack on the US capital on January 6, 2021.

    USA TODAY NETWORK asked Jerry Eller, a licensed mental health counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist, what he saw and heard. He has run his private practice on Merritt Island in Brevard County for 34 years.

    And he’s hearing a lot from customers concerned about Nov. 5. We asked him a series of questions about the mental health impacts of the 2024 election and what we can do to protect our souls no matter the outcome of the election.

    Here’s what Eller said:

    Q: What are some common mental health issues you notice in your clients due to political stress, especially in a polarized environment?

    A: This effect is expressed in increased anxiety, depression, anger and fear. I have clients who express fear (of putting a political sign in their front yard saying “Someone might shoot at our house”). I have had clients state that they may try to move to another country depending on the election results. Others admit that depression deepens as November 5 approaches. Last Thursday, people in St. They witnessed political shouting in the streets of St. Augustine. Increased sleep disturbances and tension (headaches) are other symptoms of the client’s lack of well-being.

    Q: How do you recommend people manage feelings of powerlessness or frustration with the political system?

    A: My suggestions to my clients to help them manage their emotions are to concentrate on the things they can control in their lives and to seek out new experiences of joy and wonder every day.

    Q: Have you seen an increase in relationship conflicts due to differing political views between families or couples?

    A: I believe relationships between couples and families are also affected. The candidates’ positions appear so hostile to each other that meaningful communication between couples becomes particularly difficult.

    Question: How can families discuss politics in a way that promotes understanding and connection, not division?

    A: Communication is very important! Positive communication facilitates understanding of each other and possible compromises. Couples need to focus on the aspects of their relationship where they can get as much joy and support as they can. Sharing enjoyment of music, dinners, and physical activities are examples; actually focusing on areas that are common and generally agreed upon.

    Many families are very divided (politically) right now. I am aware of holiday gatherings being canceled due to political tensions. Here again, what is something non-political that families can share and enjoy? I believe football is such a venue right now.

    I am aware of some speculation that this election will lead to increased demographic movements of people seeking like-minded individuals. If this movement happens, I think the danger is that people will become more polarized.

    Question: How do you see election-related stress manifesting psychologically in people? Are you seeing more anxiety or depression around this time?

    A: The upcoming presidential election is certainly one of the most competitive in our nation’s history. I do not believe that this is due to the different views of the candidates (parties). I believe people have lost faith in the integrity of the electoral process. Many people no longer believe that the voting process will be fair or free from interference. People seem to be questioning whether their in-person ballots will be counted accurately, and those who send their ballots by mail seem to be wondering the same thing. Some say that if one of the parties comes to power, our electoral process will be disrupted. It seems that these emotions have a (psychological effect) on individuals.

    Q: What are some effective coping mechanisms you recommend for managing election stress without being overwhelmed or consumed by the news cycle?

    Answer: Regardless of the election results, life will go on. Therapy can help people normalize their emotions and better cope with feelings of overwhelm. Expanded breathing techniques and achieving a state of awareness will also be improved through therapy. It is more important than ever to reunite feelings of love with your loved ones and families.

    This reporting is supported by a Journalism Funding Partners grant. Mental Health Reporter Sara Paulson can be reached at: [email protected].

    Harry
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