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Vote for Your Mental Health

this election season

by Courtney L. Whitt, Ph.D.,
Director of Behavioral Health at Healthcare Network

olls and studies in the past several years Take time for yourself, spend time with friends and family and
have noted that many people are feeling do things you enjoy. It’s beneficial to be with people who share your
P stressed and anxious due to social discord, values and are mutually respectful.
wars, economic uncertainty and environmental As protection against any stress and anxiety, including the
threats. political variety, make sure you are getting enough sleep and exercise
While some individuals hope that upcoming and eating a healthy diet.
elections may bring resolution, others may Avoid political arguments and practice respect, compassion and
experience heightened mental unrest due to the election process. tolerance. No matter the outcome of the election, we all are in this
In 2016, the American Psychological Association found that together.
52% of Americans surveyed said the election was a significant Concentrate on things you can control. Do something positive
source of stress in their lives. In 2020, that number had risen to to make the world a better place. It’s a way to accomplish something
68%. Some are predicting that this year’s election could raise these and regain control, while connecting you to hope and optimism.
numbers even higher. Instead of worrying about possible negative outcomes in advance
One reason could be that a Harvard poll found that people 43 of the election, be intentional about allowing for uncertainty.
years old and younger rank “the state of the country/world” as a Open your mind to accept anything you don’t directly control.
top factor associated with their happiness. Another reason could Certainty seeking behaviors only feed worry and anxiety.
be increased polarization, toxicity and negativity. Knowing that Assess the things that really matter in your life.
we only have one vote, in addition to diminishing trust in political Embrace voting as your fundamental right. Even if you wonder
leaders and systems, can contribute to feeling little to no control about your ability to make a difference, voting is an active behavior
over outcomes we feel are unsettling. that fulfills your civic duty. It also represents the conclusion of
One thing is certain- constant media coverage, debate and another election cycle and a shift away from politics.
concern over how the result of the election will impact our lives Anxiety is part of being human and sometimes can be helpful.
and society can all impact our wellbeing. However, when it becomes persistent and overwhelming, it can
This feeling was given a name by Steven Stosny, a Maryland negatively impact your relationships at work, home or school.
therapist who defined “election stress disorder” as stress and anxiety If you find the stress and anxiety of the upcoming election leaves
triggered by election news that spills into work, social and family you feeling significantly hopeless and depressed for more than two
life. weeks, seek support from a mental health professional. Long-term
He noted that voters in recent elections may have felt stress and anxiety, no matter what the cause, has the potential to
personally attacked for their choice of candidates because degrade your physical health, relationships, and overall quality of
personalized messages, news alerts and social algorithms ramped life.
up biases, fear and anger. About the Author
Signs you may be suffering from “election stress disorder” Courtney L. Whitt, Ph.D., is the Director of Behavioral Health at
include obsessing over the election, body tension, irritability, sleep Healthcare Network. She leads the organization’s integrated behavioral
disruption, relationship difficulties and physical symptoms like and mental health model, designed to treat the whole person.
headaches and fatigue. This approach recognizes the relationship between physical and mental
As the election news coverage increases, you can do things to health, fostering seamless collaboration between mental health staff and
protect your mental health. primary care doctors. For an appointment, call 239-658-3000 or
Avoid continuous exposure to political news. Limit your visit healthcareswfl.org.
consumption, look for balanced news sources, and avoid shows,
politicians and commentators who seem to increase your anxiety.

239-658-3000 HealthcareSWFL.org SUPPORT: healthcareswfl.org/donate/

48 Life in Naples | May, June, July 2024