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In the wake of elections, many people experience a range of emotions, from disappointment and frustration to anxiety and sadness. Likewise, there are people who are experiencing emotions on the opposite end of the spectrum. Regardless of where you may fall, it's important to take time to care for yourself in the days, weeks and months that follow. It’s perfectly valid and normal to feel disoriented or overwhelmed after such a significant event, especially when it feels like your hopes or values were not reflected in the outcome. It’s important to give yourself permission to acknowledge and process these feelings.
Here are a few strategies that may help cope with the emotional rollercoaster that election season brings and promote healing in the days to come:
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions
Allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling, whether it’s sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief. These emotions are a natural part of the process, and giving yourself space to experience them can help release pent-up stress.
2. Connect with Supportive People
Reach out to trusted friends, family, or a therapist who can offer a listening ear or simply provide emotional support. Sometimes, sharing your thoughts with someone who understands can bring comfort and a sense of connection.
3. Practice Self-Care
Take care of your physical and emotional well-being by engaging in activities that help you relax and recharge. Whether it’s going for a walk, meditating, listening to music, journaling, leaning into prayer or simply taking a moment to breathe, prioritizing self-care can help reduce feelings of overwhelm.
4. Limit Media Consumption
Constant exposure to news and social media can intensify feelings of frustration or helplessness. Consider setting boundaries around your media consumption and taking breaks from online platforms and the news mill to regain perspective. It's okay and important to protect your peace, the information will still be out there once you are ready to be informed.
5. Focus on What You Can Control
While it may feel like large systems are outside of your control, focusing on actions within your reach can be empowering. This could mean getting involved in local community initiatives, volunteering, or supporting causes that resonate with you. Small acts of change can create meaningful impact. If you're passionate about the issues at play, consider how you might channel your energy into constructive efforts moving forward. Getting involved in advocacy, raising awareness, or simply continuing conversations in your circles can help create positive change in the long run.
6. Give Yourself Time
Last, but certainly not least, give yourself time. Healing after an emotionally charged event is a process, and it’s important to give yourself time to adjust. Don’t rush the recovery process—allow yourself the grace to move through these emotions at your own pace. You wouldn't run a marathon immediately after a major surgery, so give yourself permission to heal from any emotional wounds.
If you are needing a compassionate space to process during this time, we are here to help. At ADJ Counseling and Wellness, we understand that these moments can be difficult, and are committed to providing you with the resources and care you need.
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