31 Oct Are you (like me) freaking out a bit over the US election? Here are some simple tips to cope …
I try to keep politics out of these space; at least I do, most of the time.
But there’s no doubt that the current state of US politics, and similarly in some other parts of the world, is anxiety provoking and distressing for many.
It may be because you’re worried about one party winning, or your party losing, or it may be the difficulties it’s caused between you and friends, or family members, who struggle to remain amicable given different and sometimes strong beliefs.
Either way, high levels of stress and anxiety, over long periods of time, is not very good for our health and wellbeing and happiness and so today I thought I’d try to offer a few simple tips to avoid or minimise peak freak out!
- try to understand WHY you’re feeling so anxious. It might be obvious, but it might also be less clear; yet either way, understanding the root cause of your stress can help get on top of it
- do all you can to practice the age-old and super useful motto of … focusing on what you can control and accepting what you can’t
- as with many difficulties and stressors, remember you don’t have to cope all on your own. Find your tribe, find support and consolation in those who love and support you. But try, also, not to judge or reject others too harshly or unnecessarily (I’m well aware this is easier said than done, but where relevant, try to separate the person from their beliefs)
- don’t forget to take care of your self-care. Your physical health and wellbeing might need ever more attention than usual through these stressful times
- and finally, choose your sources of news carefully and set limits. You don’t need to check the headlines multiple times each day!
I hope that helps. Here’s to a future with more peace, love and understanding. Dr Tim