Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
As election season heats up, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, this can be an especially stressful time. With so much at stake, from LGBTQ+ rights to healthcare access and protections against discrimination, it’s hard not to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. But while this sense of urgency is real, there are ways to manage election anxiety, so it doesn’t consume your day-to-day life. Here are some friendly, practical tips to help you cope with the stress during this critical election cycle.
Limit Your News Consumption
It’s important to stay informed, but it’s equally important to know when to step back. Scrolling through endless news updates, opinion pieces, and social media debates can feel like drowning in bad news. Try setting boundaries—maybe limit yourself to checking the news just once or twice a day. You can also consider following sources that offer digestible, unbiased updates rather than alarmist headlines.
Focus on What You Can Control
When anxiety spirals, it’s often because we feel powerless. But remember, you can make a difference in your own way. Whether it’s voting, encouraging others to vote, volunteering for campaigns, or donating to causes you care about, every little bit helps. By focusing on what you *can* do, you reclaim some control and channel that nervous energy into action.
Create a Self-Care Plan
The stress of the election is real, so you need to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Creating a self-care routine can help you stay grounded. This could involve practicing mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or even something as simple as taking daily walks. Taking breaks from political talk and doing things that bring you joy—reading a book, watching your favorite show, or spending time with loved ones—can act as a mental reset.
Stay Connected
Election anxiety can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Talk to friends, join community support groups, or engage with LGBTQ+ organizations that understand your concerns. Having a support system that shares your values and understands your fears can be incredibly reassuring. Plus, sharing how you’re feeling with others can lighten the emotional load.
Set Boundaries in Political Conversations
It’s easy for political discussions to become overwhelming, especially when tensions run high. Don’t feel obligated to engage in every debate or convince others to share your perspective. It’s okay to protect your mental health by setting boundaries in conversations—whether it’s with friends, family, or even on social media. Let people know when you need to step away from a conversation for your own well-being.
Seek Professional Support If Needed
If the anxiety becomes too much to handle on your own, it’s important to reach out to a mental health professional. Many therapists specialize in dealing with anxiety and can offer tools and coping strategies specific to your situation. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength.
