Post Election Stress

November 27, 2016 Elsa Orlandini

Post election stress is a phenomenon that has recently caused many Americans to feel angry, disappointed, hopeless, and afraid. According to the American Psychological Association, individuals reporting significant levels of stress have increased as a result of the recent presidential election. There has been a noted influx of individuals seeking assistance from physicians and psychologists due to heightened levels of anxiety and fear primarily due to post election stress. We have experienced that many active clients spend time in their therapy processing their emotional reactions, fears and concerns related to the election. Of those clients who voted for President Elect Trump, they express fear over speaking openly about their choice.

Additionally, some clients have reported experiencing increased family conflict due to opposing views, resulting in separations and tension between family members. Social media platforms have also played a role in increasing tension between individuals, leading some to “unfriend” others while others have gotten pulled into frustrating back and forth online battles. Some clients have ended relationships or potential relationships specifically related to this election difference of positions.

It is important for those who are facing post election stress symptoms to take care of themselves and implement effective coping mechanisms in their daily lives.

Coping skills

 sharing emotional reactions with like minded people
 participating in local government and being actively involved in what our government is doing
 reporting any inappropriate actions by others about political positions to the local authorities.

When faced with uncontrollable levels of post election stress, individuals may find support from a licensed psychologist through the therapeutic process. Therapy may provide assistance by helping individuals find an outlet for their concerns as well as assisting individuals come to terms with the outcome in a healthy manner. Learning how to regulate stress responses through relaxation techniques, such as meditation and diaphragmatic breathing exercises may be beneficial for many individuals currently experiencing heightened levels of anxiety. In addition, family therapy services may help families increase their communication without blaming or belittling other family members with opposing views.

Post election stress is real and many of us have experienced it. Don’t allow this stress to deteriorate your sense of self efficacy, being grounded, feelings of hope for the future or dilute your relationships with loved ones.

Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini and her experienced psychologists and therapists of Miami Psychology Group can help individuals, couples and families to cope with the post election stress. If you are stressed about the election and need help, please contact Dr. Elsa M. Orlandini and the licensed psychologists and therapists of Miami Psychology Group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Post-election stress is a phenomenon where individuals experience heightened levels of anxiety, anger, disappointment, hopelessness, or fear following an election. It has been observed that many people report increased stress, causing them to seek assistance from psychologists. This type of stress can lead to family conflicts, social media tensions, and even ended relationships due to differing political views. By acknowledging these feelings and working through them in therapy, individuals can manage stress better.

Individuals can cope with post-election stress by sharing their emotional reactions with like-minded people, getting involved in local government activities, and reporting inappropriate actions related to political views to authorities. Additionally, learning stress regulation techniques such as meditation and diaphragmatic breathing can help manage anxiety. Therapy can offer a constructive outlet for expressing concerns and finding healthy coping strategies.

Psychologists play a crucial role in helping individuals manage post-election stress by providing a safe space to express and understand their feelings. They assist clients in developing effective coping mechanisms and stress regulation techniques. Through therapy, individuals can gain insights into their emotional responses and learn to deal with stressors healthily and productively.

Yes, family therapy can be beneficial in managing stress related to political differences. It helps families improve communication without resorting to blame or belittlement. Therapists facilitate discussions that promote understanding and respect among family members with opposing political views, thus reducing tension and enhancing family unity.

Social media can exacerbate post-election stress by increasing tensions among individuals with differing political opinions. It often leads to arguments and unfriending due to heated debates. Disconnecting from social media for periods can be beneficial for those feeling overwhelmed and stressed about ongoing political discussions and conflicts.

Miami Psychology Group

Post Election Stress