The upcoming presidential election in the United States is poised to be a significant event with far-reaching implications for many aspects of American life, particularly mental health. As the election season heats up, with candidates from both the Democratic and Republican parties ramping up their campaigns, it’s crucial to examine how the election’s impact on mental health could alter the well-being of Americans.
Mental health is just as important as civic duty this election season. By staying informed through reputable sources, managing your stressors, and seeking help if needed, you can safeguard your well-being during this pivotal time in America’s history.
The Mental Health Implications of Presidential Elections
Election Stress Disorder is not a term that was widely recognized before the 2020 U.S. presidential election. However, with the intense political climate and relentless news cycles, many Americans reported high levels of stress linked to the election.
According to some mental health professionals, the upcoming election could have a similarly negative impact, especially exacerbated by the ongoing effects of the pandemic.
The American Psychological Association (APA) has highlighted that the persistent stress from prolonged pandemic conditions, economic uncertainty, and now the intensified political climate can lead to heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
A 2020 study published by the APA showed that 76% of adults reported the nation’s future as a significant source of stress. The combination of these stressors can make coping increasingly difficult, placing a significant burden on already strained mental health resources.
Programs focusing on mental health support, like increased access to teletherapy and the promotion of self-care practices, are more essential than ever. Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of addressing these issues proactively to mitigate long-term consequences on mental health.
The Pandemic and Mental Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has already caused levels of stress worldwide, and its extension into the election season adds an extra layer of concern for many U.S. adults. The ongoing uncertainty, health fears, financial instability, and social isolation have taken a tremendous toll on mental health globally.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders increased considerably in the United States during April-June of 2020, compared with the same period in 2019.
As the pandemic extends into the election season, this stress is compounded for many U.S. adults. The APA highlighted that political stress is now layered on top of pandemic-related stress, leading to what some experts call a “perfect storm” for mental health challenges. The constant influx of news updates, political advertisements, and social media debates surrounding the election intensifies feelings of anxiety, depression, and helplessness.
Moreover, the politicization of pandemic responses, such as mask mandates and vaccine distribution, has further polarized the population, making the political environment even more contentious. This adds to the overall stress load as individuals navigate their political beliefs and personal and public health concerns.
Mental health services have seen a surge in demand as a result, with many people seeking therapy and counseling to deal with the compounded stress. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has reported increased calls to their helpline and higher attendance in virtual support groups during this period.
The increase in outreach underscores the importance of accessible mental health resources and the need to address the unique challenges posed by the overlapping crises of a pandemic and the election season.
Social Media and Mental Health
In today’s digital age, social media amplifies the intensity of the election season. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram serve as battlegrounds for political discourse.
Social media can be a double-edged sword. While it raises awareness and engagement, it is also a continuous source of stress and misinformation. This can lead to increased anxiety and stress levels among users, particularly young adults who are more active on these platforms. A recent survey from the Pew Research Center found that 90% of adults aged 18-29 use some form of social media, making them highly susceptible to its effects.
Social media’s pervasive and unregulated nature makes it a breeding ground for misinformation, fake news, and divisive content. The algorithm-driven nature of these platforms often favors sensational and emotionally charged content, which can escalate stress, fear, and anxiety among users.
The constant barrage of political posts, debates, and conflicting information can lead to “information overload,” where the sheer volume of incoming data becomes too overwhelming to process, thus increasing stress.
Moreover, the echo chambers created by social media algorithms can exacerbate political fragmentation. Users are often shown content that aligns with their beliefs while opposing views are underrepresented. This can foster a sense of division and antagonism, contributing further to emotional distress.
To mitigate these negative effects, our mental health experts recommend the following strategies for healthier social media use try the following techniques:
- Limit Screen Time: Set daily time limits for engaging with social media to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
- Curate Your Feed: Follow credible sources and unfollow or mute accounts that spread misinformation or overly negative content.
- Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks from social media, especially during peak election periods.
- Fact-Check Information: Use reputable fact-checking websites to verify information before accepting it as truth or sharing it further.
- Engage in Positive Interactions: Focus on positive and constructive conversations rather than divisive debates that often lead to stress.
By adopting these practices, young adults can maintain their engagement and awareness while protecting their mental health from the adverse effects of social media during the election season.
Self-Reported Mental Health Concerns
A survey taken before the 2020 U.S. presidential election revealed that nearly 68% of Americans found the election to be a source of significant stress. Mental health professionals warn that similar trends will emerge as we enter the upcoming presidential election.
However, Election outcomes are not just a concern for those who align with the Democratic or Republican parties. Independents and those less politically engaged also report significant stress levels.
Independents, who may feel alienated by the political climate, and those typically less engaged in politics also report significant stress. This universal stress underscores the election’s impact, extending beyond party lines and affecting the mental well-being of a diverse range of individuals regardless of their political affiliation or level of engagement.
Geographic Variations in Election-Related Stress
States like Nevada, North Carolina, and California are expected to be battlegrounds in the upcoming election. Residents in these states often report higher stress levels due to the increased political activities and advertisements that flood their daily lives.
In Reno, Nevada, for instance, mental health services have noted a rise in self-reported anxiety and depression symptoms as election day approaches. The constant campaign rallies, debates, and media coverage can overwhelm individuals, contributing to anxiety and emotional fatigue.
The heightened exposure to political contention makes these states stress hotspots as residents navigate a barrage of partisan messages and increased social pressure.https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0Sqg9/1/
Mental Health Outcomes Post-Election
While the immediate period leading up to the election is fraught with anxiety, mental health outcomes can remain affected post-election. The election results can elicit various emotional responses, from relief and joy to disappointment and despair.
The mental health impact can be more severe if the election results are contentious, as seen in the aftermath of the 2020 U.S. presidential election. The extended disputes and reactions amplify emotional distress, making it crucial to address and manage mental health proactively during and after such tumultuous electoral periods.
Mental health is not just about emotional well-being. It is a crucial aspect of overall health care. The upcoming election could shape the future of health care policies in America, which in turn affects mental health services.
Both President Biden and his Republican counterparts, including Donald Trump, have outlined differing visions for health care, which include proposals about prescription drugs and mental health funding.
For many Americans, the stakes are high, as these policies could directly impact their access to mental health services and medications, including the following:
- Antidepressants, medications like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) are used to treat depression and anxiety.
- Antipsychotics are prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- Mood Stabilizers are used to manage bipolar disorder and mood swings.
- Anxiolytics, such as benzodiazepines, are used to treat anxiety disorders.
- Stimulants are prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Healthcare policies may affect affordability, insurance coverage, and the availability of these essential medications.
Addressing the Stress: Tips and Recommendations
Given the high levels of stress associated with the upcoming election, mental health professionals recommend several strategies to manage stress and maintain well-being:
- Limit News Consumption: Constant exposure to the news cycle, particularly negative news, can increase levels of stress. Setting specific times to catch up on the news can prevent it from being overwhelming.
- Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise is a proven way to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Seek Professional Help: Speaking to a mental health professional can offer strategies and support for managing election-related stress.
- Stay Connected: Social connections are vital. Engage in conversations but recognize when it might be beneficial to avoid heated political debates.
- Mindful Media Consumption: Be mindful of the sources of information. Reliable sources can prevent stressors related to misinformation and speculation.
Renowned psychiatrist Sankar Mukhopadhyay emphasizes the importance of managing stress proactively. He notes that “unmanageable stress levels can lead to significant mental health issues and should not be overlooked.”
Vote against Stress
As we navigate this intense period, it’s crucial to focus on mental well-being and seek appropriate coping mechanisms. By understanding the broader implications and taking steps to manage stress, Americans can better prepare for the challenges.
The Summit Wellness Group is here to help you develop coping strategies for election-related stress and other stressors in your daily life. Contact us at contactus@thesummitwellnessgroup.org to learn more.