How to survive the elections – Carswellfamilyfoundation

Christina Applegate angry at presidential election results announcing Donald Trump will sit in the Oval Office again. Crazy with a capital “M”.

“Please unfollow me if you voted against women’s rights. Against the rights of disabled people. Yes, unfollow me because what you did is unreal,” the actress wrote on X.

Applegate is not alone. She got into a fight with Trump supporters in the comments, as did Cardi Bwho expressed her displeasure with the presidential race in a since-deleted Instagram video. On social media sites, many people expressed similar sentiments, with “unfriend me” or “unfollow me if you voted for…” posts that flooded Facebook and X. Other popular tweets chided celebrities who supported Vice President Kamala Harris» applied for a post in the White House, which prompted them to leave the country.

But is the answer more contempt and division?

If you’re looking for ways cope – or don’t gloat too much – that’s where you should focus your energy.

Understand what a “normal” reaction to an election looks like

First, remember to give yourself a break. “It’s normal to feel anxious,” says Dr. Shairi Turner, chief health officer at Crisis Text Line.

“Anxiety and stress can manifest differently in different people, but I think the key is for people to know that if they feel anxious, it’s actually a normal reaction to something that we know is happening. could potentially become periods of polarization.” ” says Turner. “And the key to anxiety is to really know yourself and know how to deal with it.”

Take a break from social media

The fastest way to calm down? Try the news and social media detox. “People fall into a rewinding pattern where they constantly read negative news cycles,” Turner explains.

While social media has its benefits, such as networking and staying in touch with others, spending too much time on these platforms is linked to depression, anxiety and stress, says an addiction specialist. Dr. Shahla Modir previously told USA TODAY.

Modir says you know you’re on social media too much when you check your “notifications and messages every hour, which affects your commitments, occupation, or social relationships.” The day after electionsthis may include checking every minute.

Be sensitive if you are happy with the results

Everyone rejoices when their candidate wins. But in a highly polarized election, it’s likely that there will be people in your orbit with whom you disagree. Maybe even yours spouse.

“Expect to have a difficult conversation,” Turner says. “If you don’t want to, really be limited in when and where you’re going to talk about politics.”

Use Some Healthy Distractions

Take time to relax with your favorite show or music playlistwhether you are having fun or moping around in melancholy. But pay attention to the warning signs: You may need more help than distractions.

“When people feel that they are unable to carry out their daily activities, they are not functioning, they are not sleeping, this is really the case when support necessary,” says Turner. “When changes occur in appetite, relationships, work, function and productivity, each of these changes may warrant seeking support either through the Crisis Text Line or from friends or family members. Even for those who feel like they have the situation under control, it’s never too early to seek support.”

Remember: you can never truly get rid of your fear. But absence of fear does not equal enlightenment. “Fear will always be there, but it’s important to remember that fear doesn’t have to stop you.” Raquel Martina licensed clinical psychologist, previously told USA TODAY. “You can operate with a healthy level of fear.”

Contributing: Alyssa Goldberg, Sarah Moniuszko