Have you heard of "election depression"? Feelings of hopelessness and despair are common during and after election season

The term “election depression” describes the hopelessness and the despair that many experience mid- and post-election. What exactly causes these depressive thoughts and feelings? The list is long, but negativity, news overload, and feuds in-person and online are characteristic of this election depression.

It’s likely that you’re struggling with some difficult feelings related to the election, be it depression, stress, fear, or anxiety. It’s likely, too, that you’ll continue to suffer with some of these feelings after election day. Landon Sheriff, a Licensed Professional Counselor at Thriveworks in Richmond, VA explains that every election “leaves about half of the country unhappy.”

Sheriff says that it’s normal to experience these emotions especially in today’s political climate. However, it is important that you take the necessary steps to manage these emotions. Here are a few tips that can help you do this:

1.     Focus on your immediate circle.

It’s easy to get caught up in what’s going on in the world, and more specifically, the negativity in the world. Combat this negativity by focusing on your own circle. Check in on your loved ones, spend time engaging in activities you enjoy, and do what you can to bring positivity to your life as well as those around you.

2.     Find an outlet.

In addition, find an outlet that you can channel these emotions into. For example, exercising is a great way to release anger and other intense emotions. In addition, exercising releases endorphins, which can help you feel more positive.

3.     Talk to someone.

It’s also important that you talk explicitly about how the election is making you feel. If you feel angry, depressed, upset, fearful, anxious, or stressed, talk to a trusted loved one. Or, if you’d rather not talk to your friends or family members about politics (we don’t blame you), consider talking to a counselor. A counselor can validate your emotions and also offer personalized tips for dealing with them.

4.     Go easy on yourself.

Now is the time to be extra kind to yourself. Anytime we are overwhelmed by tough emotions like depression and stress, we must prioritize self-care. Identify a few activities you enjoy that allow you to decompress. Some ideas are journaling, playing music, reading, and taking a bubble bath.

5.     Take a break from the media.

A central cause of election-related depression, anxiety, and stress is our exposure to the media. If the news or social media is having a negative effect on you, consider taking a break. Delete the news apps from your phone. Log off of Facebook and Twitter for a few days (or as long as you need to). Create the necessary boundaries.

The bottom line is that your health and wellbeing should always come first. If you’re suffering because of election-related depression, stress, or a number of other difficult feelings, follow the tips above. And if you still feel lousy, consider talking to a mental health professional.