As America prepares to watch this week’s presidential debate, many are feeling the stress of this year’s unprecedented election cycle. New research from the mental health app Headspace and the nonpartisan initiative When We All Vote shows that the elections are impacting our well-being.
Nearly 80% of respondents said they are paying more attention to politics this year than they usually do. While that can lead to better informed choices, it can also create more feelings of anxiety and nervousness: an annual survey by the American Psychiatric Association found that 73% of adults are feeling “particularly anxious” about the 2024 U.S. election.
Constant alerts on social media, trying to sift through conflicting information to find the facts, and concerns about the election’s outcome all contribute to what is being called election stress disorder. While about 30% of adults say their sleep has been negatively affected by anxiety about the elections, among Gen Z that percentage jumps to 40%.
What’s stressing us out?
According to the Headspace/When We All Vote findings, inflation is the issue creating the most anxiety for Americans during the election season, with 53% of respondents reporting it stresses them out. That’s followed by immigration (37%) and healthcare affordability (34%). Women’s reproductive rights are the main stressor for about one-third of Americans.
How to manage election stress
Regardless of what is stressing you out this election season, there are simple practices you can choose to help soothe your anxiety. One of the most important things you can do is register to vote and be sure to vote on or before election day. While you alone can’t control the outcome, being part of the democratic process can help with your overall mental health.
You can also try a practice like mindfulness or meditation to help when you feel the stress start to rise. Headspace has created a free Politics Without Panic election guide to help you put your mental health first this season.
To walk you through the feelings you might be having, Live Happy has teamed up with clinical psychologist Dr. Lauren Cook to offer a free email series, Overcoming Election Stress. Sign up here to get this four-week course delivered to your inbox and help you understand the causes of election stress, receive tips for managing your anxiety, and learn how to manage difficult conversations during this tumultuous season. You can also hear Dr. Lauren talk about election stress in this podcast episode.
And remember, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the news or the election season, seeking the help of a professional therapist or counselor can help.
