News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Election stress disorder, the term was coined during the 2016 presidential election and remains prevalent this election rotation as voters wait for the final result.
Tennessee Tech Counseling Center Assistant Director Dr. Christina Mick said she is not surprised by the access amount of anxiety voters are experiencing this year.
“A lot of people engage in what’s called doomscrolling, and doomscrolling is where you kind of get sucked into social media negative news about the campaign,” Mick said. “And then, you engage in listening to information about COVID-19. That is going to cause a lot of people to feel really overwhelmed.”
Mick said the pending results of the presidential election adds another layer to the stress. Mick said people struggling should create a post election stress management plan.
“If you are able to take some time off work and do the things that are relaxing to you, that is important,” Mick said. “Check in with your loved ones. Process with your support people your feelings. Engage in conversations that you know are not going to cause you stress, right now. Also, it is real important to focus on what you control.”
One thing people can control is the amount of media intake. Mick said taking breaks from screen time can ease some stress.
“The general population is concerned about the direction our country is going, which is a valid concern,” Mick said. “But, what really contributes to the stress are negative campaign ads that people are watching. Sometimes people engage in negative social media debates.”
Mick said regardless of this year’s election result, to focus on your own health and remember that life goes on.
