March 27, 2025
Julia Lopez
Dr. Arif Noorbaksh
Election anxiety is a very real phenomenon. You don't need to struggle with worry. Try these strategies to help turn down the volume on anxiety as traffic the polls turns up.
As the election season heats up, many people are experiencing a heightened sense of anxiety around the outcome and its impact. This feeling, often called “election anxiety,” is a natural response to times of uncertainty and high-stakes decisions. Dr. Arif Noorbaksh, psychiatrist and founder of Therapath Mental Health, a private practice offering telehealth across Texas, provides insights into how we can manage this unique form of stress.
"This is one of the most charged elections of our lifetime. So worry is a normal response. But in reality, we don't know what is going to happen before or after the results." – Dr. Arif Noorbaksh
Election anxiety is indeed a real phenomenon. Constant media coverage, political ads, and discussions on social media can amplify stress, especially during contentious election seasons. Not knowing what’s ahead can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to navigate these feelings with greater ease.
If you’re feeling stressed about the upcoming election, try implementing these practical strategies:
"What's important to focus on is what you can control. Make a plan to vote and vote. Then, acknowledge your effort to align your action with your values, " shares Dr. Noorbaksh
Take pride in doing your part. Acknowledging your actions and effort can be empowering and can reduce feelings of helplessness.
Limit exposure to news and social media, which can fuel stress. You can even let people in your household know that you need to limit screen time. Boundaries with the news are healthy. "Disengage with the news media, social media, and other reminders and feel free to tell them it's 'doctor's orders'," suggested Dr. Noorbaksh.
Physical activity can help reset your nervous system and boost your mood. Even just a few minutes of exercise, such as a walk outside, can make a big difference.
It might seem counterintuitive but worry with a boundary works. Imagine it like setting up a fence around worry and letting it release some steam. Create designated time to write down your worries can help you release them. Try setting a five-minute timer, jotting down all your concerns, and then discarding the paper when you’re done.
Elections may change some things, but they don’t change everything. Take time to play, connect with loved ones, and embrace activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Creativity requires imagination. Worry also requires imagination because you are trying to predict the future. Funneling that energy into something creative can redirect worry into something positive. Try a seasonal project, like pumpkin carving and remember that election season is also harvest season and spooky season.
If you’re experiencing intense anxiety, reaching out to a mental health professional can provide valuable support. Dr. Noorbaksh emphasizes the importance of focusing on what’s within our control to help reduce anxiety.
Lean on your support network, and remember that anxiety loves to be noisy and loves to bottle you up in your mind. Connecting with your care team, your loved ones, and engaging in life helps release the concerns and find relief. For those who already suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, or other mental health concerns made worse by worry, now is the time to schedule and keep appointments with your provider.
