Yesterday was Election Day, and because of the COVID-19 pandemic and more people voting by mail, we may not have full election results for a while.
Dealing with so much uncertainty can be hard – especially since elections can feel personal for many of us.
With everything that is going on, and many of us still distance learning and managing other stress at home, it is especially important to take care of yourself! Here are a few ways to care for your mind, body, and spirit:
Connect with friends - Create a group chat or spend time with loved ones who you feel safe with – processing the election together and anything else you may be going through may help you feel less isolated. It might feel good to talk about feelings, but it also might be equally helpful to share memes or funny videos and find moments of laughter to ease some tension.
Take Breaks - It can be tempting to scroll through social media looking for results and projections – and see what else is going on in the “outside world”, but it’s important to take breaks from social media and the news. Read a book, watch your favorite TV show, journal, listen to music, make art. Do whatever you enjoy, that doesn’t include looking at your phone!
Meditate - Take a few minutes to calm your mind by meditating or practicing breathing. There are apps available to help you practice meditation or listen to some mediation or sound bath YouTube videos. If you are short on time, even taking a few deep breaths and focusing on relaxing your body can help reduce stress. Harry Styles has even lent his voice to help us relax – thank you Harry!
Move your body - Finding a few ways to move your body will help reduce stress and improve your health! Exercise releases endorphins that help us feel better. Things like jumping jacks, yoga, lunges, and pushups can all be done inside, without equipment. Need inspiration? Just put on some music and dance!
Don’t skip the basics - Anxiety can make us lose motivation to do the things we usually do – but taking care of our basic needs like eating and sleeping is proven to reduce stress.
- Teens need between 8-10 hours of sleep every night. Make sure you are getting enough sleep to take care of your body and mind!
- Don’t forget to eat. Feed your body meals that will give it nutrients -- think fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (although baking something yummy or eating comfort food in moderation is also a valid coping strategy!)
Make a plan to get involved in your community – For some of us, having a plan of action can help ease feelings of anxiety.
- Figure out what issues you care about and think about how you can get involved – look up volunteer opportunities in your community here!
- Learn more about how to be an ally so that you can help support others
- Share health information (like TeenSource) and other topics that you care about with your friends
How are you dealing with election stress? Share with us on Instagram!