Tips for Hoosiers Dealing with Election Season Stress

Election season can be stressful for various reasons. Here are some tips on how to manage your anxiety ahead of Election Day.

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Who are you voting for? That question is about as loaded as they come when it comes to the 2024 election. I'm not just talking about the presidential race either. Tensions are high this election season over several races, whether you're talking about gubernatorial, congressional, or even local city and county races. It's caused a lot of anxiety for many, including myself.

I recently came across a list of tips from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) Counseling Center on how to deal with this stress. However, I believe it's important to look at this list with an open mind. While this list isn't designed to challenge your political viewpoint, it is meant to challenge how you feel and treat others with opposing viewpoints.

1. Focus on What You Can Control

This is a good rule of thumb for any kind of anxiety. UCI notes that you can focus on what you can control this election season by voting if you are eligible to do so and by getting involved with causes you care about. While this will require a bit of work, it will reduce your anxiety by giving you the peace of mind that you did everything you could on your end.

2. Separate People from Their Viewpoints

This one might be my favorite counseling tip on the list. Believe it or not, you can care for and love people who don't believe as you do without agreeing with them or even understanding why they think the way they do. Relationships are built on much more than political views. Personally, I've seen equal amounts of nastiness on both sides, so I think this is one tip we should all keep top of mind ahead of Election Day.

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3. Stay Mindful

UCI makes another great point about our motivations during election season. The counseling center recommends that before you engage in a discussion or debate with someone whose views are different from yours, you should consider what your goal is. Are you really going to change their mind or get them to admit that you’re right? Is this really something you want to argue about or lose a friend over?

4. Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries is super important this time of year. UCI recommends limiting your exposure to political news and social media to avoid overload. It’s helpful to take mental and conversational breaks from politics, and it’s certainly okay to walk away from an overly heated conversation that doesn’t feel productive or meaningful.

5. Beware of Disinformation

Disinformation is everywhere these days, especially in the age of artificial intelligence. Apps like TikTok seem to be filled with fake photos and misleading social media posts. It's important to educate yourself about the facts and their sources, especially if it's something causing you anxiety.

6. Remember the Golden Rule

Treat people the way you want to be treated. If you treat others as the villain, chances are they will treat you the same way, regardless of what you're saying. You should remain civil and refrain from name-calling, even if the other person is doing just the opposite. As the old saying goes, "You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar."

7. Stay Curious

Staying curious is the final piece of the puzzle. We shouldn't assume we know a person just based on their political views. It's important to consider other people's backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences that may factor into their opposing views. Your voice is worth expressing; just remember to keep respect and dignity top of mind when doing so.