Election season can be a stressful time, especially when it seems like there’s more bad news everywhere you look. Knowing how to manage election-related stress is essential, and recognizing when you or a loved one may need anxiety treatment is also important. Contact our compassionate team at Northeast Health Services online or call 508.794.8711 to explore election anxiety and doomscrolling, how they affect your mental health, and actionable tips to help you avoid doomscrolling during this election season.

What You Should Know About Elections and Your Mental Health

Elections are pivotal events that can evoke a broad range of emotions. From excitement and hope to anxiety and fear, the uncertainty surrounding election outcomes can be particularly taxing on your mental health. This heightened state of emotional arousal can trigger or exacerbate anxiety conditions, making it imperative to adopt coping mechanisms.

What Is Election Anxiety?

Election anxiety refers to the stress and worry people experience due to election-related news and events. Symptoms can include:

• Insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased irritability
• Feelings of hopelessness

Understanding this phenomenon is the first step to managing it effectively.

What Is Doomscrolling?

Doomscrolling is continuously scrolling through negative news articles or social media posts. This behavior is often fueled by the need to stay informed but can quickly become addictive, leading to heightened anxiety and stress.

Recognizing the Signs of Anxiety Conditions

Being able to identify the symptoms of anxiety conditions can help you seek timely intervention. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent worry or fear
• Restlessness or feeling on edge
• Fatigue
• Difficulty controlling worry
• Physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, or dizziness

By cultivating awareness and employing effective coping strategies, you can navigate election season with resilience and maintain your mental wellness amidst the challenges it may bring.

Learning How to Avoid Doomscrolling During Election Season

Consider the following tips to break the cycle of doomscrolling and manage election anxiety.

Set Time Limits on News Consumption

Allocate specific times during the day to catch up on the news and stick to these limits. This will help you stay informed without becoming overwhelmed.

Curate Your News Feed

Follow reputable sources and consider unfollowing or muting accounts that contribute to your anxiety. Tools like news aggregators can help you get the information you need without the sensationalism.

Practice Mindfulness

Engage in mindfulness exercises such as meditation or deep breathing to help ground yourself and reduce stress.

Engage in Physical Activity

Exercise is a great way to alleviate anxiety. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or hitting the gym, physical activity can help you manage stress.

Connect with Loved Ones

Talking to friends and family can provide emotional support and perspective, helping you feel less isolated.

Seek Professional Help

If your anxiety becomes unmanageable, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy and medication can be highly effective in treating anxiety conditions.

How Anxiety Treatment Services Can Help

At Northeast Health Services, we specialize in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and other mental health conditions. Our services include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – A proven method for treating anxiety by helping you identify and change negative thought patterns
• Medication management – For those who may benefit from pharmacological treatment, our psychiatrists can help manage medication plans
• Telehealth services – Offering the convenience of receiving care from your home

Our experienced team of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you manage your anxiety effectively.

Connect with Northeast Health Services and Ask About Our Anxiety Treatment Services Today

With awareness and the right strategies, you can navigate election season while prioritizing your mental health. By recognizing the signs of anxiety and implementing strategies to avoid doomscrolling, you can maintain your well-being during this stressful time. If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly. You can also call 508.794.8711 to learn more.