LEXINGTON, Ky. — Americans are poised to make a significant decision as they head to the polls on Tuesday, participating in the closely watched 2024 presidential election. The competition is tight between former President Donald Trump and sitting Vice President Kamala Harris, with supporters from both parties energized and optimistic about their respective candidates.
As Election Day approaches, concerns about mental health have emerged. Professionals urge voters to maintain perspective amid the political tensions, advising respect for opposing views regardless of the election outcome. The months of intense campaigning have heightened anxiety levels, with a recent survey revealing that 73% of adults express anxiety regarding the impending election.
Licensed psychologist and University of Kentucky professor Shannon Sauer-Zavala highlights the effects of uncertainty on mental health. “Uncertainty is a huge trigger for anxiety,” she notes, pointing to the close polling results and divisive political climate. “It feels really high-stakes and we have no idea what’s going to happen.”
To alleviate anxiety, Sauer-Zavala encourages individuals to focus on the present and engage in self-care practices. “Engaging in our regular self-care—cooking dinner, going for a walk, or going to bed at a reasonable time—are things that will fuel us,” she explains.
Kelly Gillooly, director of behavioral health at UofL Health, emphasizes the impact of social media in exacerbating stress related to political events. “If you feel like that you’re spending too much time on social media and news channels, then we recommend you disengage,” she advises. Gillooly suggests finding comfort in activities that bring peace and joy as a means to cope with the surrounding political hysteria.
Should their candidate win, supporters are reminded of the importance of celebrating respectfully. “Those are relationships you want to maintain into the future,” says Sauer-Zavala. “Leaning into your joy over your side’s victory may have lasting effects on important relationships.”
Moreover, experts note it is normal to feel disappointment or anxiety in the days following the election. However, they encourage individuals to seek mental health support if adverse feelings persist for an extended period following the announcement of election results.
As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the message remains clear: prioritize mental well-being and engage respectfully with one another, regardless of the election outcome.
