Five tips to address election stress
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The presidential election and its potential fall out are driving high rates of stress among Americans this year, per a new American Psychological Association (APA) survey.
- But there are things you can do to mitigate it.
Why it matters: Anxiety can have measurable health effects, including activating high levels of stress hormones related to weight gain, diabetes, heart disease and more.
- The election could take several days to sort out leading to extra agitation regardless of which side you are on.
By the numbers: The APA poll found that 7 out of 10 people surveyed felt stress about the country's future, regarding the economy and results of the election.
- 32% of Americans ages 18-34 during the last three presidential elections reported feeling both nervous and scared about the upcoming election in a poll from American University published last month.
Top tips: Here are some stress reduction tips we've synthesized from experts.
🚲 Get active: Go for a lakefront bike, walk or jog where you can remind yourself that our 14,000-year-old Lake Michigan has seen a lot of turmoil and she's still rolling along.
- Five Point Holistic Health in Logan Square is offering an election night drop-in Qigong class and $25 acupuncture aimed at helping people destress.
- Join a Tuesday night restorative yoga class at The Lab or register for a low-cost Park District fitness class.
😮💨 Take a breather: Experts say even five minutes of deep breaths (we like this box breathing technique) can make a big difference.
🤝 Connect with others: Meet up with friends, family, neighbors or like-minded voters at an election night party.
🎧 Turn out for tunes: Switch off the news for a bit and catch performers outside local polling stations or some relaxing music from this NPR list.
📞 Get help: If your worries don't dissipate and you think you have anxiety, contact a health care provider or if needed, contact 988 for crisis support.