Today may be a stressful day for many. Here are some suggestions for ALL of US that may help us navigate the day.
- Give yourself time and space: Keep your schedule flexible on election day. Take short breaks throughout the day. It is ok to feel a range of emotions about the day. Practice self-compassion by finding the time and space to process your emotions.
- Set social media boundaries: Social media contributes to the stress of the day. It can amplify negativity and put you into information overload. Some ways to set boundaries are to set time limits, stick with one social media platform, and create ‘media-free’ zones.
- Share your concerns: A fundamental truth is that we need each other for support. Reach out to family and friends to talk about how you are feeling. Don’t be alone with overwhelming thoughts and feelings.
- Get outside and move around: There is great evidence that time spent outdoors is great for both physical and mental health. Being active and breathing in the cool air may help bring you some peace during an emotional time.
- Nourish your body: Start your day off with a hearty breakfast like oatmeal with honey and fruit. Avoid drinking too much caffeine in order to avoid ‘coffee jitters’. Listen to your body when it’s hungry and enjoy healthy snacks throughout the day. Avoid foods that contain lots of processed sugar as they often come with a ‘crash’. Feed yourself the foods that give you strength and comfort.
- Try a guided meditation: The benefits of mediation are many. There are free mediation apps and YouTube videos that offer guided mediation. Some are as short as a minute. Try one if you are feeling uneasy.
- Go to bed: We may not know the results of the election by tonight. The news will continue to cover the story late into the night. Plan a cut-off time for yourself to turn off the media coverage and go to bed. Sleep is essential to your well-being.
If you are having a hard time please reach out to those you trust for support.If you are having a mental health crisis reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. If you are struggling with a substance use disorder call 211 where you will be directed to your local Doorway
