HOW WE THINK

How to deal with election stress, anxiety as you await results

Watching a movie, going for a walk or venturing into your hobbies are necessary distractions.

In Summary

•During the elections period,  people are often worried about what is going to happen to the country.

•In consequence, most of them become anxious regardless of the political side they support.

Image: STAR ILLUSTRATED

We are done with voting.

But how do we survive stress and tension build-up as we await the results?

During the elections period,  people are often worried about what is going to happen to the country.

In consequence, most of them become anxious regardless of the political side they support.

Considering recent challenges like inflation, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the high cost of living among other things, it is normal to feel stressed and anxious.

As such, what one needs to do is find a way to cope with situations and look out for surviving mechanisms.

While many experience the burning desire to watch out for the latest trends on social media, it is advisable to limit the time spent on the internet.

Watching a movie, going for a walk or venturing into your hobbies are necessary distractions one needs in such moments.

Limiting news to just a couple of times a day and disconnecting from phone, TV, and computer screens for a while could also serve one good.

Dismissing engagements or talks that might trigger stress is also key to managing stress and anxiety.

If something is confusing or irritating you do not have to partake in it. Take control.

You can just say ‘Not interested,’ and walk away or change the topic or leave the room.

Sleep is also quite crucial during this time when news companies are updating stories 24/7 and there is a lot of information going around.

Eat less junk, alcohol and caffeine which may impact your sleep.

Exercise regulary or go for evening walks to avoid getting way too deep into your thoughts.

Instead of hearing the latest update about the polls, eat well, exercise, get enough sleep and go on with your daily routine.

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