Managing Post Election Emotions

The period after a major election can be challenging, especially when the outcome differs from what you hoped for. When you’ve invested emotionally in a candidate or cause, and the results aren’t what you wanted, it’s natural to feel a range of difficult emotions. These can include sadness, anger, anxiety, and even helplessness. Managing post election emotions can feel daunting. Here are some gentle, compassionate ways to take care of yourself during this time.

Acknowledge and Process Your Emotions

It’s okay not to be ok. It's ok to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even disillusioned. Take time to sit with these emotions and give yourself permission to feel them fully. Journaling or speaking with a trusted friend or therapist can help you process these feelings in a healthy way. Remember, emotions are natural responses, and acknowledging them is the first step toward healing.

Take a Break from News and Social Media

In the days following an election, the news cycle can be overwhelming, filled with analysis, commentary, and strong opinions. Consider taking a break from social media or limiting your news intake. Give yourself space to disconnect from the constant updates to avoid feeling further stressed or anxious. Instead, read an enjoyable book; go for a walk and look at the nature that surrounds you (even the sky above you); watch a easily digestible movie or comfort television show; meet up with a friend and decide to talk about things unrelated to the election results (reminding each of you that your lives are greater than the sum of the election).

Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques

During times of high stress, mindfulness can be a powerful tool. Try simple grounding exercises to bring yourself back to the present moment—like taking deep breaths, focusing on your surroundings, going to a restorative yoga class or using meditation apps to center your mind. Each of these things can help re-regulate your nervous system. Getting outside and breathing fresh air and feeling your feet on the Earth can literally reset the way your nervous system is responding. Practicing mindfulness can help you manage overwhelming thoughts and reconnect with a sense of inner peace.

Connect with Like-Minded Support- But Carefully

Reach out to friends, family, or communities who share similar values. Sharing your experiences and feelings with others who understand can help you feel supported and less isolated. Also, be careful that the energy of the group doesn't sink into hopelessness or the support may actually accentuate your suffering. Continually bring it back to hope and positive things that you can do collectively to further your beliefs.

Reframe and Focus on Small Actions

As mentioned above, while large-scale change may feel out of reach, look for small, meaningful ways to contribute to causes that matter to you. Volunteering, educating yourself and others, or even making lifestyle choices aligned with your values can provide a renewed sense of agency and purpose. These small steps can remind you that you still have the power to make a difference.

Embrace Self-Compassion

It’s easy to be hard on yourself for feeling down or for not achieving certain goals, especially when the stakes feel high. Remind yourself that it’s okay to feel upset, and treat yourself with kindness. Self-compassion involves offering yourself the same understanding and patience you would give to a friend going through a tough time.

Stay Hopeful for the Future

While a particular outcome may be disappointing, try to keep a long-term perspective. Social change is often gradual, and history is full of examples where persistence and resilience have led to progress. Take this time to focus on your well-being and recognize that your passion for positive change can endure even beyond this moment.

Final Thoughts

Remember that caring for yourself is a vital part of moving forward. Give yourself grace, time, and support to process your emotions, and know that it’s okay to step back as you need. Healing takes time, and it’s important to respect your personal journey.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist. A mental health professional can offer a safe space to explore your feelings, learn coping strategies, and guide you through this challenging time.