GREENSBORO, N.C. — It’s time for ‘My 2 Cents.’
On the heels of last night’s vice presidential debate and a week away from the second presidential debate, it likely feels like you’re being bombarded with all things election. You can’t escape it between your social media feed, your mailbox and those never-ending text messages asking if you’re registered to vote.
It’s stressful every four years but it’s especially stressful in 2020 because we’ve all been dealing with COVID-19 stress in the months leading up to the election.
The American Psychological Association and Harris Poll found 68% of American adults say the upcoming presidential election is a significant source of stress in their life. For perspective, in 2016, only 52% of people said the election was a somewhat significant source of stress.
There are ways we can cope with this.
First, understand there are things we can’t control don’t let your mind switch into worst case scenario mode. Obsessing over the doom and gloom can cause even more problems.
You also want to consider planning everything out. there are some things you can control, like when you’re going to vote, what you’re going to do on Election Day. And having a plan gives you a sense of stability.
Something else you can control, how much you allow yourself to consume election-related content. Don’t get into "doomscrolling," or endlessly scrolling on social media and reading bad stuff. Set limits for yourself.
Elections are important – they’re the cornerstone of our nation – and it’s good to be informed and connected. But if you find it’s too much and you’re stressed out, allow yourself to disconnect and take a breath.