3 Coping Skills You Need To Get You Through This Election Day....
When I originally wrote this post I described all of the things that made this election year feel different from the times past. But it occured to me that for so many people, every election feels like this. In fact, many Americans spend election days hoping that the people put in power to make decisions will keep them safe.
In times like these most of us are looking for coping skills that work fast. Alcohol is a big one on that list because it’s pretty cheap, works quickly, and is readily available. But, I know from personal experience that while alcohol did take away the stress for a bit, it really didn’t make me feel better. In the long term, it amped up the level of cortisol pumping through my veins making me more angry and irritatedl.
Here are 3 coping skills that I plan to use no matter the outcome of the election.
Stay off social media. When I read through social media posts I see a lot of energy being exchanged. So much passion, excitment, anger, rage, and more is being spread across the screen. What if instead of arguing with people behind screens on social media posts we used our energy toward what we believe? When the vote is decided I suggest taking a walk outside and thinking deeply about your role in this country. Decide what you personally think is best for the greater good (not just you) and then find one small way to do something about it. If every single person put small acts toward making our country better for everyone I think this country could in fact become better for everyone. Don’t waste what very little energy you have on social media arguments.
Let go of things you can’t control. I’ve voted, begged, pleaded, donated, prayed, and signed petitions over and and over again. Beyond that, there isn’t much I can do about who becomes the next President of the U.S. Taking action is very important but so is resting and recharging so that you can build up stamina for when it’s needed. If you’ve taken action and things didn’t turn out how you hoped, it’s okay to take a break. Rest, reset, and allow yourself to feel your feelings. You can do this by reading something entertaining, listening to good music, moving your body, journaling, meditating, watching an old favorite movie. It’s okay to hold space for your feelings.
Talk to someone. Right now, things feel terribly divided. It might even feel like you don’t know how to act, behave, or even be in the same space with people who don’t think like you. Talking with a friend or even a trained therapist can you help you see that these feelings are normal. Processing what you’re feeling can help you better navigate sticky situations and help you release some assumptions. I’ve always found that once I say what I’m feeling out loud, it’s not nearly as bad as the beast that was forming in my thoughts.
2020 has been really hard. There’s no shame in feeling low, exhausted, unmotivated, and even more anxious than ever before. There is so much going on right now. Just remember that you’re not alone and there is always help. Here are some resources that I find helpful:
