Many Americans are expressing that the upcoming elections are causing additional stress, and you may be impacted as well. The Cleveland Clinic recommends five steps to help manage election stress:

• Limit your media consumption. Read just enough to stay informed. Turn off the newsfeed or take a digital break. Take some time for yourself, go for a walk, or spend time with friends and family doing things that you enjoy.
• Avoid discussions about the election if you think they might produce conflict. Be aware of how much you’re discussing the election with friends, family members or coworkers. (Or do a complete flash back to the time when it wasn’t polite to talk about politics!)
• Recognize that stress and anxiety about what might happen is not productive. Channel your concerns into making a positive difference on issues you care about. Consider volunteering in your community, advocating for an issue you support or joining a local group.
• Remember that whatever happens on Election Day, life will go on. Avoid catastrophizing and maintain a balanced perspective.
• Vote. By voting, you are taking a proactive step. Seek out balanced information on the candidates and issues, make informed decisions and wear your “I Voted” sticker with pride.

Read the full article here: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/stressed-about-the-elections-5-tips-to-get-you-through/

Additional resources:

• What is “Election Stress Disorder,” and Do I Have it? (CBS News)
• 47% of Workers Say the 2020 Election Has Impacted Their Ability to Do Their Jobs (CNBC Make It)
• How to Deal With Election Anxiety (Psychology Today)
• How to Handle the Stress Between Now and Election Day (Healthline)
• Already Got Election Anxiety? Here are 4 Ways to Grapple (Psychology Today)