More than half of America is stressed about the 2016 presidential election.
Kansas City based psychologist Diane Morgan finds herself discussing that stress with her clients.
“A lot of people, when they’re already feeling emotional or feeling high anxiety, this is one more thing,” said Morgan, who works in Truman Medical Center’s Behavioral Health department.
Negative ads and mudslinging between candidates on the campaign trail can ignite reminders of someone’s own bad experiences according to Morgan.
Also weighing heavily on voters’ minds are the stakes of the election, especially if a voter has a personal stake in a political policy.
“If they’re having financial troubles and are listening and trying to figure who to believe and who is going to help them the most,” said Morgan. “Some of the things that are going on are very personal to the people that are listening.
The social media factor
Morgan suggest avoiding political posts on social media and muting television ads.
If that doesn’t work, use a familiar stress management activity if you feel affected by the election.
“It may be taking longer walks, it may be sitting outside. Whatever works for you,” said Morgan.
Do I need a psychologist?
Changes in your lifestyle could indicate that you need help.
- Sleeping problems
- Increased irritability
- Changes in appetite
- Hygiene issues
- Not doing normal activities
“In other words, your anxiety or maybe even depression may be kicking in,” said Morgan. “Those are times you may just need a session or two.”
------------
Brian Abel can be reached at brian.abel@kshb.com.
