Navigating Post-Election Emotions

Supporters of both candidates feel a variety of intense emotions after an election. Both the thrill and excitement of a win and the disappointment and frustration of a loss can have lasting impacts post-election. While it’s okay to feel your feelings in the moment, it is important to know when to let go of those emotions. The tricky part of any emotionally-charged event is determining when to let your feelings pass, and how to move forward without allowing your emotions to overtake you. If you’re unsure about how to proceed during these days and weeks following the election results, don’t worry! Transition from intense feelings to a place of calmness and composure with these useful strategies…

Recognize and accept your emotions.
Start by being attuned to your emotions. How did you feel when you heard the results, and how do you feel now? Name your feelings. You can use bodily sensations to identify the emotions you’re experiencing. For example, if you feel that your shoulders are tense, you may be going through anxiety. If your brow is furrowed, you may be feeling frustrated. If you feel that your cheeks are raised and your lips are curled up, you may be experiencing excitement. Look to your body to understand how you feel.
Next, accept your feelings. Your emotions aren’t good or bad, right or wrong. They’re temporary; they’re just how you feel in this moment, and that’s completely okay. Don’t reject or regret how you feel. At the same time, don’t let your feelings in this moment control how you feel in the weeks ahead. Avoid attaching judgments and blame when coming to terms with your emotions. It’s important not to cling to your emotions or ignore them either. Instead, accept your feelings for what they are and let them pass.

Discuss your thoughts aloud or through writing.
Keep in mind that emotions are messages. They tell us different things depending on how we’re feeling. Sadness is a message that something is missing or lost. Anger warns you that something is wrong or that there is an injustice. Happiness tells you that something feels right.
Anxiety is a sign that you think something bad is going to happen. No matter what you’re feeling, don’t ignore it or keep it bottled up inside you! Express yourself by talking about your thoughts and feelings with a family member, friend, or a mental health professional depending on who you feel comfortable with. Or, explore your current mindset through writing. Journaling is a great, healthy way to get out your thoughts and feelings. It can relieve you of the emotional weight and stress of carrying intense emotions.

Give your mind a break! Spend time offline.
While it’s helpful to be connected to what’s going on in the world, it’s just as important to give your mind and body a break. Make it a habit to disconnect, whether it’s for an hour or two daily or for one day per week. Replace time that you would normally spend scrolling through social media or watching the news with self-care practices. You could go for a mindful walk outside, enjoy a socially-distanced meal with a friend, do an arts and crafts project, bake a sweet treat—the list is endless! Do something that you enjoy which doesn’t involve a screen. Consider it your opportunity to relax and recharge without worrying about what’s going on in the world. Put your emotions aside temporarily and focus on being present in the moment, doing whatever you like to do. It will be a refreshing experience for your mind and your body (your eyes will certainly thank you for it!)

Everyone is feeling a mix of emotions after hearing the election results. Whether you’re navigating how to come down from an emotional high or figuring out how to lift yourself up from an emotional low, know that finding balance is possible. Start by understanding where you stand emotionally and ideologically. Consider what triggers you to feel intense emotions, and do your best to limit those triggering events. Reach out to others or look within yourself for emotional support. This transition period is tricky for everyone, but we will get through this together.