Week 32: Coping Through Election Day

“The vote is precious. It is almost sacred. It is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democracy.” — John Lewis in a 2019 CommonWealth Interview

As we approach Election Day, the intensity is palpable. For months, we’ve been navigating a landscape filled with heated debates, conflicting opinions, and nonstop media coverage. This year, the stakes feel especially high. It’s not just about choosing candidates—it’s about the values we hold dear, the future we envision, and, for many, the core aspects of safety, freedom, and equality. The conversations we used to share freely with friends, family, and colleagues may now feel fraught with tension, leaving us questioning our connections and even our sense of belonging.

For some, the sheer divisiveness of this time can feel like a direct threat to peace of mind, stability, and hope for a safe future. We may be carrying fears not only about the outcome but about the broader impact on our communities, our loved ones, and our personal lives. The stress can feel overwhelming, weighing heavily on even the simplest moments of daily life.

If you're feeling these pressures, know that you're not alone. This blog post offers strategies to navigate the final days of the election season and to cope with whatever results come our way. Together, let’s explore how to find some calm, foster resilience, and protect our well-being amid the noise and uncertainty of this significant moment.

Limit Your Exposure to Election Coverage

Let’s be real—there’s something almost hypnotic about watching election results roll in minute by minute. But with 24-hour coverage as relentless as a toddler on a sugar high, it’s essential to set some boundaries for yourself on Election Day. Instead of checking every five minutes, try tuning in every few hours. Even if you’re tempted to keep tabs on every twist and turn (or if you’re a chronic “just one more update” person), remember: major updates will make headlines regardless. No election result ever depended on you refreshing the page!

Engage in Activities That Ground You

Take some time each day to focus on activities that bring you joy or relaxation. Whether it’s reading, listening to music, spending time in nature, or connecting with a friend (about something other than the election), these grounding activities can help restore a sense of peace and remind you of the things that bring meaning to your life. Sometimes, shifting focus can help break the cycle of worry.

Prepare for Election Day with a Plan

Create a plan for Election Day itself. If you’re voting, decide when and how you’ll cast your ballot, whether in person or absentee. Once you've voted, consider planning the rest of your day with things that bring you a sense of calm or joy. For example, take a walk, cook a comforting meal, or do something creative. Give yourself space to feel that you’ve done your part, and then find ways to connect back to yourself.

Practice Breathing Exercises and Grounding Techniques

If you feel yourself spiraling with “what if” scenarios, try simple breathing exercises or grounding techniques to bring you back to the present moment. Something as simple as taking a deep breath in for four counts, holding it for four, and exhaling for four can make a difference. Acknowledge your feelings without judgment, and remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can to manage them.

Build a Support Network for Election Night and After

Sometimes, being around others who understand what you’re going through can be comforting. If it feels right, consider watching the results with close friends or family members who can help support you emotionally. And if you’d rather spend the night on your own or distracted by a favorite hobby or show, give yourself permission to do that. This is your experience, and you get to decide what you need most.

Focus on What You Can Control

After the results come in, it can be easy to feel a loss of control, especially if the outcome isn’t what you hoped for. Remind yourself that you can still make an impact, even if it’s in small ways. Think about what actions you can take to advocate for the causes you believe in, support your community, or even educate yourself on local or national policies that align with your values. Remember that change is often a long journey, and your voice and actions matter.

Practice Self-Compassion if Results Bring Disappointment

It’s natural to feel disappointment, fear, or even grief if the results don’t align with what you hoped for. Acknowledge your feelings without pushing them aside. Give yourself time to process. Allow yourself to feel and express disappointment. Focusing on areas where you can contribute or bring about change can help redirect some of that energy.

Finally…

As Election Day nears, the weight of this moment can feel like a storm—unpredictable and intense. This season goes beyond casting votes; it’s about envisioning a future rooted in the values we hold dear—safety, freedom, equality, and hope for a better tomorrow. Yet, the tension in the air can test our resilience, as conversations that once felt natural now seem charged, challenging our sense of belonging and connection with those we care about. In these moments, focus on what you can control: take care of yourself, set boundaries that protect your well-being, and engage in activities that ground and center you.