Brain Health Expert: Patricia Faust
Worried about how to survive the stress this political season?
Lord have mercy! Am I going to make it through this political season in one piece? I live in Indiana on the border of Ohio. The state line is only four miles from my house. All our news and media come from the Cincinnati market.
Normally I love it because I live in a small river town and local news is what we get here. In fact, I must make an effort to learn about Indiana politics. I hear there is a gubernatorial race happening this year!
A Very Contentious Senatorial Race:
This year however, Ohio is having a very contentious senatorial race. There is a lot of money supporting these campaigns. That results in a barrage of commercials. These commercials start at 4:30 in the morning (that’s when I get up!) and go nonstop the entire day and evening. It is not unusual for the same commercial to run 4-5 times per hour. The mute button on my remote is looking very worn now.
The politics of these races from the presidential ticket down to local races is nasty. The vitriol spewed is unnerving. And the repetition of this rage and anger is hurting my brain. What country are we living in right now? This pushed me into researching how politics is affecting our mental health.
“The politics of these races from the presidential ticket down to local races is nasty.”
Political Stress:
A survey was conducted at the University of South Florida (May 6-9) and sponsored by the Florida Center for Cybersecurity. Respondents included a nationally representative sample of 1,500 registered voters, and the results are reported with a margin of error +/-2.11% (95% confidence).
The results of the survey suggest that political stress may be more common than many of us expect, and the long-term consequences could be undermining the goal of improving the mental health outcomes in America.
Then research suggested that politics may be a significant contributor not only to individual stress, but also the physical manifestations of poor mental health, and fracturing of critical social networks, which are the heart of mental wellbeing.
The psychological impact of this election year can have a profound effect on our lives. Here are some key points that identify what is behind our stress and anxiety.
Social Media Can Amplify Stress And Anxiety During Election Years:
Social media platforms offer instant updates and a forum for public discourse. However, this constant stream of information can amplify stress and anxiety. The 2020 Pew Research Center study found that 55 percent of U.S. adults said, “they feel worn out by political posts and discussions.”
It is a platform where users are exposed to viewpoints that reinforce their own beliefs in an environment that intensifies emotions and fosters a polarized atmosphere. The psychological toll of interactions on these sites includes increased anxiety, feelings of isolation, and even depression.
This paired with doomscrolling and a continual news stream is incredibly detrimental to anyone’s mental health.
News Consumption And Its Psychological Effects:
Studies have shown that continuous exposure to news – particularly negative coverage – can have a serious mental health impact.
“Studies have shown that continuous exposure to news – particularly negative coverage – can have a serious mental health impact.”
News anchors and pundits play a central role in shaping the perception of the candidates and the election. But their opinions and assumptions can blur the line between objective reporting and sensationalism.
This constant onslaught of analysis and speculation can create distress and making it difficult for individuals to maintain a balanced perspective.
Political Discussion With Others Can Strain Personal Relationships:
We have a ‘no politics’ rule in our house. It is a discussion that becomes charged quickly and then takes time to cool off. It isn’t worth it.
A friend of my son died a few months ago. We knew him well and attended his funeral. While there I learned that this young man’s mother was in attendance, but his sister wasn’t. Mother and daughter were feuding about politics. This was such a sad documentary on how destructive politics can be.
So, What Can You Do To Survive This Political Season?
1. Set A Limit On Your Media Consumption:
The 24-hour news cycle and constant exposure can increase political anxiety.
- Set specific times to check your news feed.
- Curate your social media feeds to prioritize content that uplifts you and informs without overwhelming you.
- I watch YouTube videos of finalists for America’s Got Talent!
2. Find Time For Your Type Of Self-Care:
- Carve out time to maintain a routine that includes activities you enjoy.
- Add these activities to your calendar for a necessary respite.
3. Stay Connected With Supportive People:
- Now is the time to surround yourself with supportive individuals who make you feel grounded and less isolated.
- Staying socially connected is very important for your brain health. Do not try to get through a stressful election season by yourself. The stress is too powerful
4. Focus On What You Can Control:
- It can be easy to feel powerless when the stakes are high.
- Focus on what you can control: your actions, your vote, and your advocacy.
- Participate in activities that can make a difference.
5. Practice Mindfulness And Relaxation Techniques:
- Mindfulness, relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation, can help reduce political anxiety and stress.
- Stay in the moment and manage your emotional responses.
6. Seek Professional Help When Needed:
When we are overwhelmed by anything, it is hard to find our way to a solution. Therapists can provide strategies to manage anxiety, stress, and other mental health concerns.
It is hard to believe at this moment, but this too will pass. The future might be exhilarating or depressing. Learn how to take care of yourself no matter what the outcome may be. You are the only person who has control over you.
References:
Associated Clinic of Psychology. Protecting Your Mental Health in an Election Year. Retrieved from: https://acp-mn.com/blog/political-anxiety/
Havird,S. & Neely, S. (May 31, 2024). Here’s the mental health toll of America’s corrosive political climate. Retrieved from https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/2024/05/31/heres-mental-health-toll-americas-corrosive-political-climate/
Leno,M. (August 21, 2024). The psychological impact of an election year. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mind-matters/202408/the-psychological-impact-of-an-election-year
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About the Author:
Patricia Faust is a gerontologist specializing in the issues of brain aging, brain health, brain function and dementia. She has a Masters in Gerontological Studies degree from Miami University in Oxford Ohio. Patricia is certified as a brain health coach and received a certification in Neuroscience and Wellness through Dr. Sarah McKay and the Neuroscience Academy. My Boomer Brain, founded in 2015, is the vehicle that Patricia utilizes to teach, coach and consult about brain aging, brain health and brain function. Her newsletter, My Boomer Brain, has international readers from South Africa, Australia, throughout Europe and Canada. She has also been a frequent guest on Medicare Moment on WMKV and Cincy Lifestyles on WCPO.
