Election Day is here and you’ve likely heard relatives or friends say they can’t wait until it’s over. There’s clearly some national anxiety when it comes to this election. People want their candidate to win so bad that it’s affecting them. However, experts have several, simple ways to cope.
Dr. Faith Coleman, who graduated from the University of New Mexico’s medical school and has worked in family medicine, has a few suggestions.
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First, try not to focus on the outcome. It’s not a catastrophe if your candidate doesn’t win. Instead, focus your energy on a favorite hobby or a specific cause that you are passionate about.
Coleman said people tend to overemphasize negative emotions. Instead, think about what makes you happy and that it’ll still be there, no matter the outcome of the election.
She also said that social media can become a toxic reservoir and encourages people to have social interaction in person, whether it be over coffee or a meal.
In addition, psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma told CBS News, people should try to avoid “doomscrolling,” which means spending a lot of time on social media or getting push notifications with news that is very upsetting.
Most experts agree that exercise is a great remedy for stress and anxiety. Getting in some movement or physical activity can help decrease negative emotions.