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Election Day Self-Care: 10 Tips to Stay Calm and Resilient
Election Day Self-Care: 10 Tips to Stay Calm and ResilientToday is Election Day—finally.
After months of headlines, debates, and an endless news cycle, many of us feel the intensity of this moment, especially those who stand as allies for our LGBTQ+ loved ones. Election Day can bring a mix of emotions and stress, and with so much at stake, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So today, let’s talk about self-care for Election Day and practical ways to manage Election Day stress.
Here are 10 Election Day self-care tips to help you stay grounded, resilient, and calm.
1. Listen to Episode 133 of the Podcast
Start with a little Election Day stress relief by listening to Episode 133 of Just Breathe, featuring Kelly Lubeck, a nervous system specialist. Kelly shares simple techniques to help soothe your nervous system, perfect for times of election anxiety.
2. Avoid Constantly Refreshing Poll Results
Election Day stress can worsen if you’re glued to the polls all day. It’s unlikely we’ll know the outcome tonight, so save yourself from unnecessary anxiety and take a break from constant updates. Let yourself breathe and focus on staying calm on Election Day.
3. Choose Calming Podcasts
If you enjoy podcasts, choose ones that keep you informed but calm. Avoid those that heighten election anxiety or amp up the drama. This Election Day, lean into content that supports your mental health and helps you take a breath.
4. Find Ways to Laugh
Laughter is one of the best ways to relieve Election Day stress. Whether it’s a favorite comedian, Friends, or TikTok’s funny pets, find something that brings out your natural laugh. Not only is laughter good for your mental health, but it’s also scientifically proven to boost your immune system.
5. Reach Out and Take Action
If taking action helps you stay calm, reach out to friends and family to ensure they have a voting plan. Doing so can channel nervous energy into something positive. Drop treats for poll workers or encourage others to vote—every small act counts.
6. Vote!
If you haven’t voted yet, make a plan and exercise this powerful right. Voting is one of the best ways to stand up for LGBTQ+ rights and for our collective future. Showing up for your values on Election Day is empowering and can ease some of the helplessness you may feel.
7. Practice Radical Self-Care
Radical self-care is essential for maintaining mental health on Election Day. Ask yourself, “What do I really need right now?” Go for a walk, turn off social media, or enjoy a warm bath. There’s no wrong answer, so embrace what helps fill your cup and keeps you grounded.
8. Journal to Clear Your Mind
Journaling is a great self-care tool for Election Day. When you write down your thoughts, you remove the power from feelings of overwhelm or fear, giving yourself the gift of clarity. Put your Election Day anxieties on paper—you’ll feel lighter.
9. Step Outside and Move
Connecting with nature is one of the best ways to manage Election Day stress. Go for a walk, admire the fall colors, or sit by the ocean if you’re nearby. Let the natural world remind you to slow down and ground yourself.
10. Take Deep, Conscious Breaths
A deep, belly breath can make a world of difference. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, pause, close your eyes, and take 5 slow, even breaths. This simple technique is a powerful way to calm your nervous system and carry calm with you throughout Election Day.
Bonus Breathing Technique: Take a moment to notice where you feel stress or anxiety in your body. Focus on a calm area and try to spread that feeling throughout. Visualize this calm and carry it with you as you navigate Election Day.
Finding Balance as an LGBTQ+ Ally on Election Day
Election Day can feel intense for those of us supporting LGBTQ+ rights and our loved ones. One candidate champions these rights, while the other poses a significant threat to the progress made. But today, while we advocate for what matters, let’s remember that self-care and mental health are just as crucial.
Want to keep the conversation going? Join me on TikTok and Instagram (@chrysalismama) for more tips and support. And for deeper insight, check out Episodes 133 and 134 of the podcast. Let’s support each other, stay centered, and remember that we’re not alone in this journey.
Additional Resources:
American Psychological Association (APA):
The impact of election stress: Is political anxiety harming your health?
Election 2024: 12 science-backed must-reads to help soothe anxiety
National Institute of Health (NIH):
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