Election midterms are November 3rd, and if you’re feeling any sense of anxiety, dread, or nerves, know you’re not alone. Here are 8 ways to practice kindness toward yourself and others this election season and beyond:
1. Give yourself permission to take a break from the news
Staying informed is important, but it might feel overwhelming and stressful at sometimes. It’s OK to turn off notifications, take time away from your phone or social media if things become too overwhelming. If you still want to stay informed, consider dedicating a specific time each day to catch up on the news – like 15 minutes in the morning or in the afternoon – and when when that time is up, give yourself permission to log off.
2. Set boundaries around difficult conversations
Sometimes election season can bring out different points of view amongst people, and while these conversations can help us learn and grow, it’s also okay to recognize when a conversation is no longer productive, healthy, or kind. It’s okay to pause or step away from a conversation to keep your own boundaries.
Remember, kindness doesn’t mean you have to agree with everyone, tolerate disrespect, or participate in every conversation.
3. Connect with your community
It’s easy to feel isolated in times of stress or anxiety, but you don’t have to go at it alone. Consider reaching out to a friend to hang out, go on an adventure, to volunteer, join a community organization, or do something fun together. In turn, remember to check in on your friends and community, too! Even as something as simple as a message that says, “Hey! I know there’s a lot going on right now, and I wanted to check in. How are you feeling? I’m here if you want to talk, or if you just want a distraction.” can make all the difference!
4. Make time for things that bring you joy
When the news feels heavy, it’s easy to forget that we’re allowed to experience joy, too. Whether you’re watching funny videos, spending time outside, reading a book, creating art, or just , making space for the things you love can help you recharge. The video below of cute baby animals always does it for me! And remember: Experiencing joy doesn’t mean you care any less about the challenges facing the world.
5. Practice self-care
Try one of the above ways to practice self-care and you can even make a game out of it by making a self-care bingo card!
6. Take care for your body, too
Our mental and physical health are connected. When we’re feeling stressed or anxious, it can affect our sleep, energy, appetite, and ability to concentrate.During busy or overwhelming periods, try to make time for regular meals, movement that feels good to you, rest, and activities that help you unwind.
7. Remember that Election Day isn’t the end of your impact
Your ability to make a difference doesn’t begin or end with an election. Regardless of what happens, there’s still ways you can continue to participate in civic life, support your neighbors, and help work on issues in your community. Find ways you can continue to help via civic organizations like Rock the Vote, Do Something, or Rock the Vote! Consider maybe even joining a student organization, volunteer with a nonprofit, or write to an elected official about an issue that’s important to you.
8. Ask for help if you need it
If election-related stress is interfering with your mood or daily life, consider reaching out to someone you trust like a parent, friend, or counselor. You can also check out mental health resources through The Jed Foundation or learn how to support yourself and others through the Be There Certificate.
