As the election approaches, Americans are more focused on politics. Kamala Harris and Donald Trump present two different visions of the United States. More than half of citizens believe that their rights are under threat. Abortion rights, immigration and the cost of living, among others, raise concerns. Citizens are tired of politics and division in the country. Many American adults admit to limiting contact with family because of differences of opinion.
Constant press coverage, social media posts, and ubiquitous advertisements are constant reminders of what is at stake. Many Americans admit to being worried about the tight presidential race. 77 percent of adults say the future of the United States is a significant source of stress for them.
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– Emotions related to the election are real. We all go through them. If they're affecting your mental health, well-being and relationships, you're not alone, says psychologist Laura Goldstein.
Uncertainty about the outcome of the election, combined with extreme polarization, has left many people feeling anxious and nervous. Some of the solutions proposed by politicians may threaten people's sense of security and freedom, which raises concerns. According to a report prepared by the American Psychiatric Association, more than 60 percent of citizens believe that their rights are at risk.
– We always hear about politics. Both sides talk about the end of democracy and the world is headed for collapse. There is a lot of negativity. They also accompany my friends and family. I try to distance myself from it, but eventually it gets to me, admits Jeff Schelt, a resident of Los Angeles.
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“We deal with stress, anxiety and fear”
Election-related stress spills over into interpersonal relationships. Most Americans say the political climate creates tension between them and their loved ones. 3 out of 10 citizens admit that they limit their time with their family due to disagreements.
– We deal with stress, anxiety and fear. Sometimes we feel angry or angry. As therapists, we see that people often have a hard time reconnecting because they don't feel safe. They don't know if they're in a safe environment where they can talk about politics, says Laura Goldstein.
– I think that many people should take a broader look at everything and realize that one day our lives will end. We should be content with what we have and not debate politics every second on social media or in the real world, says Greg Parker, a resident of Los Angeles.
72 percent of adults fear that the results of the vote could lead to violence, and more than half of them believe that this year's election could be the end of democracy in America. Ezequiel Feliciano, a resident of Arizona, said: “I am hopeful for this election, but at the same time I feel very worried, especially with the recent events and rallies.”
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How to deal with election pressure?
There is a lot of advice in the American press about how to deal with election stress. Psychologists encourage citizens to list their fears and share their concerns with loved ones or a mental health professional. They urge Americans to spend less time watching the news.
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– Spending time in nature, creative activities, painting, cooking, spending time with people who are interested in us. There are different ways to deal with stress, says psychologist Kerry Jarvey.
Despite concerns about the nation's future, a survey by the American Psychiatric Association showed great resolve among citizens. About 80 percent of adults said they would vote, and more than half said they felt obligated to fight for issues that mattered to them.
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Main photo credit: PAP/EPA/ERIK S. LESSER
