Depression After Election Season: Impacts On Mental Health And Stress
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Election season can be a trying time for many different reasons. Politics are often a divisive, controversial, and polarizing topic. The election season has a way of drawing people in and motivating them to become invested in the outcome they view as desirable. Some people truly wish for one candidate to defeat the other. When this doesn't happen, it can be very difficult to reconcile. It is at this point, when we experience an outcome that seems to directly contradict our identity and values, that people may be more susceptible to experiencing mental health challenges after the election season.
How do I know if I am experiencing depression after election season?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center of Health Statistics, 4.7% of American adults in the general population experience persistent feelings of depression. The American Psychiatric Association lists symptoms of major depressive disorder, which can include the following:
- Sadness or sorrow
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Hopelessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If you are experiencing depressive symptoms that are impacting daily functioning, it may indicate the presence of major depressive disorder, which requires treatment. Consult with health care or mental health professionals to learn about treatment for major depressive disorder, which typically looks like psychotherapy and/or antidepressant medication.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 11.7% of American adults in the general population experience recurring feelings of worry or anxiety.
Anxiety can be defined as the experience of tension, fearful thoughts and physical symptoms such as increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and gastrointestinal discomfort. When you feel anxious chronically, excessively, and it impacts daily functioning, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder.
The cause of anxiety disorders is not entirely known, though the American Psychiatric Association states that it is likely a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Having a chronic medical condition or experiencing chronic pain is also shown to increase one’s risk of developing a mental health disorder.
Types of anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, specific phobia, social anxiety disorder, and separation anxiety disorder.
Additional resources for people with mental health disorders and health professionals are available through the Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
A closer look at depression after election season
A poll published by the American Psychiatric Association in October 2020 found that 62% of American adults felt more anxious than this time last year. More than 60% noted that the impact of political issues on daily life was causing significant anxiety. The tense political climate has the potential to be even more harmful among adults with existing mental health disorders than the general public. In another 2020 survey, 68% of adults reported feeling stressed due to the US presidential election.
Increased levels of depression and anxiety after the election season is a very real phenomenon. There are many contributors to this manner of depression, and the media is one of them. Individuals who keep up with the news are aware of how the news can sensationalize stories and even stretch the truth from time to time. Different people often maintain various outlooks on the press and the accuracy of reports. Nevertheless, constant exposure to divisive, polarizing coverage can be very upsetting, especially during stressful times, for people with strong feelings about the results of an election.
Risk factors for mental health challenges after an election
Thoroughly understanding the risk factors associated with depression and anxiety after an election season is beneficial. It's already been established that more biased forms of media, especially during an election cycle, can play a role in exacerbating negative emotions. However, that's only the tip of the iceberg.
Candidates themselves can also play a role in affecting stress and tension, which can lead to depression later on down the line. Candidates of all backgrounds and ideologies often deliver speeches, comments, ads, and other types of messages that are negative and meant to deride another faction’s values or identity pillars. Each candidate who runs for office wants to win, and they may stoop to low levels in order to do so.
Another risk factor comes in the form of interacting with others who may hold contrasting views about a particular candidate. It's not uncommon for people to get into intense, often aimless arguments with one another over politics and candidates who are running for office at a particular time. Sadly, marriages, familial relationships, and lifelong friendships have sometimes reached an end due to disagreements over political ideologies.
Many individuals who support a candidate often donate money, attend rallies, and otherwise participate in campaigns for their desired candidate. It is very easy to become heavily emotionally invested without even realizing it.
When a person does all of that only for their candidate to lose to an opponent, disappointment, anger, sadness, and depression can follow. Extreme emotional investment in politicians during election season can become very dangerous to a person's emotional health and even financial well-being.
Accepting the results of a disappointing election outcome
There is no doubt that managing anxiety and depression after the election season is challenging. Thankfully, the American Psychological Association has some helpful tips which people can engage in for the sake of their mental health and emotional wellness. Some of the following coping strategies will prove more effective for certain individuals than others, and that's okay. Each person has their own coping mechanisms and actions which best suit them. At the end of the day, what matters is working through any emotions that may be harming your relationships, ability to function, or overall health.
Reduce media exposure to lower stress
The role which the media plays in depression after the election season has already been established. Therefore, reducing your exposure to media is advisable if you are someone who is going through depression related to the election results. Even after one candidate has won, consuming news tends to involve coverage of the victory, thoughts about the victory, the concession statement from the candidate who lost, etc. Constant exposure to this type of energy can worsen depression. Depending on a person's line of work, it may not be possible to cut off all exposure to the media. However, taking a moment to cut back in any way possible and taking breaks while ensuring you still stay informed has been proven to serve as beneficial.
Avoid politically charged conversations as a source of stress
Many people believe that politics and religion are two subject matters which should be avoided when possible. If you are still emotionally processing the results of an election, it can help to set aside specific times for discussing politics and steer clear of such conversations otherwise. A conversation like this can get messy quickly; furthermore, politics and candidates who are running for office sometimes have a way of bringing out the worst in people. Sometimes, the most agreeable and mild-mannered individuals can become angry or confrontational when it comes to political matters and candidates with whom they align. Sometimes, it's better to just play it safe and avoid these talks altogether.
Redirect your focus to manage anxiety
According to life coach Tony Robbins, “energy flows where attention goes.” For this reason, focusing on things which bring joy into your life is another great way of overcoming depression after the election season. While it can be argued that everything in our life has some political dimension, try looking at things through a different lens for the time being. Spend time in nature, enjoying the changing leaves, or take a vacation to clear your mind. One of the best ways to overcome depression after an election season is to be so busy with other matters that you don't have the bandwidth to focus on political candidates and election results.
Get involved with your community to support your mental health
Healing from a blow due to the results of an election can be truly daunting. For many people who are truly invested in the well-being of their community, ignoring the news or avoiding political discussion can feel irresponsible or in violation of one’s moral compass. Try channeling your energy into a positive cause and holding yourself and others accountable. Regardless of where you stand politically, there are groups, volunteer organizations, and other ways in which you can get involved with your community. Surrounding yourself with other like-minded individuals and encouraging others to vote or create a voting plan can also help boost your mental and emotional health. In many cases, election losses can illuminate ways for you to improve your thinking or community-building strategy moving forward.
Use social media proactively
Social media can be very tricky after an election season. Individuals of all political affiliations have a tendency to brag or post videos, status updates, and other content which pokes fun at the side whose candidate did not win. This, too, can worsen anxiety and depression. For this reason, muting, unfollowing, or even blocking certain accounts or pages may be in your best interest. Social media has many benefits, but when used irresponsibly, it can also serve as a trigger for negative emotions that contribute to larger mental health conditions. Be vigilant and make sure that you're only absorbing content which is beneficial for your mental health.
Finding the source of stress and taking care of yourself
Regardless of how the election turned out, you and your mental health are extremely important. Politics will always be around, but you need to protect your mental health and well-being. There will always be new races, new candidates, and new politicians. However, there is only one you.
The impacts of clinical depression are very dangerous, and this is information that people need to be aware of. When depression goes untreated and unresolved, that can open individuals up to a plethora of other mental, emotional, and even physical . Sleep complications, damage to interpersonal relationships, and a decline in general wellness are common for people with mental health disorders. Severe depression and anxiety can impede someone's ability to successfully function in their day-to-day lives, which is why it’s crucial to prioritize sleep.
Coping with depression after election season
Individuals with major depressive disorder may turn to substance use as a way to self-medicate their symptoms. However, substance use only exacerbates symptoms of depression and anxiety, leading to a vicious cycle. If you are experiencing concerns around mental health symptoms or substance use, it is crucial to seek the appropriate support. For additional resources, visit SAMHSA’s website through the U.S Department of Health and Human Services.
As you can imagine, depression and anxiety, whether after an election season or under any other circumstances, is nothing to underestimate. Taking the proper steps to keep yourself healthy and functional matters greatly.
You don't have to solve things on your own
If you are still struggling with depression even after following the suggestions listed above, then you may benefit from working with a professional therapist. Therapists can make a difference in providing guidance, which is specifically tailored to you and your needs as an individual. Different things work for different people. You may also find out that depression after an election season is indicative of another underlying issue. If this turns out to be the case, then working with a therapist can certainly make a difference in your life.
At BetterHelp, we have an empathetic and highly qualified team of therapists who can work with you. You can reach out when it's convenient for you and connect with one of thousands of therapists at times that work for you. As long as you have a safe internet connection, you can choose a meeting location conducive for your needs. Another benefit of using BetterHelp is that you can receive a notification of a therapist match as soon as 48 hours after taking the initial questionnaire. Finding a face-to-face counselor is often a more time-consuming process, and in the days and weeks after a disappointing election, it may be critical to attain support more efficiently.
If you’re someone who is consistently invested in political discourse and outcomes, then facts and credibility likely mean a lot to you. Research continues to affirm the efficacy of online therapy in treating mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. In one recent systematic literature review of internet-based interventions for depression and anxiety, researchers concluded that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was effective in reducing symptomatology for both depression and anxiety.
Takeaway
How can we avoid political depression?
Political or election stress, particularly in times of contentious presidential elections, can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially when political beliefs become intensely personal or central to one's identity. The phenomena of post-election stress disorder, although not a formally recognized medical diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), is a term sometimes used to describe the excessive and persistent worry and stress related to political events and outcomes.
Additionally, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by unwanted and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that an individual feels driven to perform. While not typically focused on politics, the concept has been colloquially extended to describe the way some individuals may become obsessively preoccupied with political news and events. Post-election stress disorder refers to the anxiety and stress experienced following an election, particularly one that is highly polarizing or has a significant personal impact.
To mitigate election-related stress, it's important to maintain a balance and not let political affiliation or political beliefs dominate every aspect of daily life. Here are some steps to consider:
- Limiting exposure to political news: It’s important to set boundaries on consuming political news, as constant exposure to sensationalized content can exacerbate stress and anxiety.
- Engaging in non-political activities: Participating in hobbies or activities unrelated to politics can provide a healthy distraction and help maintain a sense of normalcy.
- Seeking support: Discussing concerns with friends or family can provide emotional support. However, it's important to engage in these discussions in a way that is respectful and avoids exacerbating stress.
- Focusing on what you can control: Involvement in local community or volunteer work can provide a sense of agency and impact in areas that are important to you outside of the larger political sphere.
- Practicing stress-relief techniques: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise can be effective in managing stress and anxiety.
- Professional help: If political stress is significantly impacting mental health, seeking help from a mental health professional can provide strategies for coping and addressing any underlying anxiety or depressive symptoms.
By taking these steps, you can reduce stress and anxiety symptoms that may arise from political events and maintain a sense of emotional well-being. Mental disorders and significant stress can adversely affect your physical and mental health, so taking preventative measures to mitigate unnecessary stress is often a good idea.
Is anxiety considered a mental illness?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, occasional anxiety can be a natural part of life. However, when anxiety becomes excessive and interferes with daily functioning, it may be related to mental illness. Anxiety disorders are some of the most common mental health conditions in the United States, affecting nearly one in three adults.
The symptoms of an anxiety disorder can vary but generally include excessive worry, fear, or uneasiness that persists for more than two weeks. Physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations, sweating, and shortness of breath, may also be present. Anxiety disorders can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to carry out usual activities and causing distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other areas.
Fortunately, anxiety disorders are often highly treatable with therapy, medications, or a combination of both. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to manage anxiety symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Can stress cause mental illness?
While stress itself is not considered a mental illness, it can contribute to the development of certain mental health conditions. Chronic stress or exposure to traumatic events can disrupt brain chemistry and lead to changes in mood, behavior, and thought patterns. This may increase the risk of developing anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental illnesses.
Individuals who are already living with a mental health condition may also experience worsening symptoms due to stress. It's essential to address and manage stress effectively to prevent it from causing or exacerbating mental illness.
Some strategies for managing stress include seeking support, engaging in self-care activities, practicing relaxation techniques, setting boundaries, and addressing any underlying causes of stress. If you're unsure how to cope with stress or are experiencing symptoms of mental illness, it's important to speak with a mental health professional for personalized support and guidance.
Can stress trigger anxiety?
Yes, stress can trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms. When a person is exposed to chronic or overwhelming stress, their body releases the hormone cortisol, also known as the "stress hormone." Cortisol can cause changes in the brain that lead to increased feelings of fear, worry, and anxiety. Inflammation in the brain caused by stress can also contribute to anxiety symptoms.
Furthermore, stress and anxiety often co-occur and can create a cycle of heightened stress and anxiety. Stress can trigger anxiety, which in turn can cause more stress, leading to an escalation of symptoms. To break this cycle, it's important to address and manage stress effectively and seek support from a mental health professional if needed.
Stress and anxiety can be normal responses to challenging situations, but excessive or chronic stress can have adverse effects on physical health and mental well-being. By taking steps to manage stress and prioritize self-care, individuals can reduce the risk of developing anxiety disorders and maintain emotional well-being even during times of stress or intense pressure.
What are the 4 warning signs of stress?
Stress can manifest differently in each person, but some common warning signs include physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral changes.
- Physical symptoms of stress may include headaches, fatigue, muscle tension or pain, digestive issues, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
- Emotional warning signs may include irritability, mood swings, feelings of overwhelm or helplessness, and difficulty concentrating.
- Cognitive changes may occur as racing thoughts, difficulty making decisions, forgetfulness or disorganization, and negative self-talk.
- Behavioral changes can include increased use of substances (alcohol, drugs), withdrawal from social activities or relationships, procrastination or avoidance, and changes in eating habits.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to address and manage stress effectively before it leads to significant negative impacts on your overall well-being. Seeking support from a mental health professional and implementing self-care strategies can help alleviate stress and promote emotional resilience.
How can we overcome political anxiety without social media?
As opposed to political depression, political anxiety may appear as a result of excessive worry and fear surrounding current political events. While it's natural to have concerns about the state of the world, chronic political anxiety can take a toll on mental health.
Political anxiety can often be resolved by taking care of oneself and practicing self-care activities. Some techniques that may help include staying informed but setting boundaries on news consumption, engaging in mindfulness or relaxation practices, connecting with a supportive community, finding ways to channel your energy into positive actions, and seeking professional help if needed.
It's okay to take breaks from the news or political discussions if they are causing excessive stress and anxiety. It's also important to remember that although politics can be divisive, many people have a discussed goal of creating a better world for themselves and future generations. Engaging in respectful dialogue and finding common ground with others can help reduce political anxiety and promote feelings of connection and hope.
What is the easiest mental illness to treat?
There is no one "easiest" mental illness to treat, as each individual's experience with a mental health condition is unique. However, some mental illnesses may respond well to treatment and have high rates of recovery. These include mood disorders such as depression and anxiety disorders, which can often be effectively managed with therapy and/or medication.
Lifestyle changes can significantly impact the severity of symptoms and improve overall well-being for individuals living with mental illness. These changes may include regular exercise, healthy eating habits, stress management techniques, social support, and engaging in meaningful activities or hobbies.
Furthermore, reducing substance use can also improve the treatment outcomes for individuals with mental illness. Drugs and alcohol can worsen symptoms and interfere with the effectiveness of medication and therapy. However, it's best to have professional support when making any lifestyle changes and to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses all aspects of mental health.
What are the 5 signs of mental illness?
Mental illness includes a wide spectrum of conditions, each with its own specific symptoms and diagnostic criteria. However, some common signs of mental illness in adults may include:
- Changes in mood or behavior: These shifts can include sudden personality changes, extreme mood swings, increased isolation and withdrawal from social activities, and a sudden absence of self-care.
- Emotional changes: Individuals may experience feelings of sadness or hopelessness, confusion, excessive fears or worries, and extreme guilt or shame.
- Impaired thinking: Mental illness can also cause changes in cognitive function, including confused thinking, difficulty concentrating, and reduced ability to make decisions.
- Changes in social interactions: Withdrawal from social activities or relationships is a common sign of mental illness. If someone avoids social situations or spends most of their time alone, it may be a cause for concern.
- Excessive stress and fear: Chronic feelings of stress, paranoia, and general fear are common in individuals with mental illness. If someone is constantly anxious or fearful without an identifiable trigger, they may benefit from seeking professional help.
It's important to note that everyone may experience these symptoms from time to time, but if they persist and significantly interfere with daily life, it may be a sign of mental illness. Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose a mental illness, so it's essential to seek support and treatment if you or a loved one is experiencing these signs.
Can you claim benefits for depression and anxiety?
Receiving financial assistance for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety is possible through various government programs. However, the process can be complex and may require documentation from a healthcare professional.
If your depression and anxiety significantly impact your ability to work, you may be eligible for disability benefits through programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities that prevent them from working.
Employers may offer benefits for mental health conditions through their employee assistance programs (EAPs) or health insurance plans. These benefits may include coverage for therapy sessions and medication. You can inquire with your employer about available mental health benefits and how to access them.
Some states have their own disability programs that provide financial assistance for individuals with mental illness. It's important to research the options available in your area and consult with a mental health professional for guidance on applying for benefits.
At what age do most mental illnesses develop?
Adolescence and young adulthood are crucial periods for the onset of mental illness. According to research, 50% of mental illnesses occur by age 14, and 75% begin by age 24. This information emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention in managing mental health conditions.
However, mental illness can develop at any age. Some individuals may experience symptoms later in life due to stressful or traumatic events, while others may have underlying conditions that only begin to manifest in adulthood.
Mental illness does not discriminate based on age, gender, race, or socio-economic status. Anyone can be at risk of developing a mental health condition, and it's important to prioritize self-care and seek help if symptoms arise.
Early intervention and treatment can improve the chances of recovery and reduce the impact of mental illness on an individual's life. If you or a loved one is experiencing concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out for professional support.
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