MICHIGAN, USA — For those feeling stressed about the election, recent polls show you're not alone. Studies show that many Americans are feeling election anxiety leading up to election day tomorrow
"Not being able to sleep through the night because of the stress and anxiety related to the election, is it really is problematic at that point," said Wayne State University Psychology professor, Rheeda Walker.
The American Psychological Association's latest Stress in America survey found that many Americans feel stressed by the election.
"We've been exposed to, you know, more election campaign ads than usual. They've certainly been amping up to the point where some people are, are turning off their television. There are folks who just have a lot of uncertainty as it relates to what's going to happen on Election Day and what's going to happen after," said Walker.
The APA survey shows that 77% of adults said the future of the nation is a "significant source of stress in their lives." While tension and emotions remain high, Walker said there are things you can do to reduce your stress.
"We don't have to replay it in our minds. I think we think, if we replay it, we'll figure it out, like no. Problem-solving doesn't work that way, but when you write things down, it honestly gives you a different perspective. The research actually shows this writing what is most upsetting allows us to have a different perspective and allows us to be able to problem solve and move past that thing," said Walker.
Walker said it's important to stick to your daily routine, exercise, take breaks from social media and create boundaries around discussing politics with others. She said election stress can look different for everyone—that's why it's important to be mindful of what you're watching and find ways to relax.
"The degree to which we experience anxiety is a choice. It truly is a choice. This has been building up for probably a few years now, but it's been amping up in recent weeks or months. Choose to say, I'm not going to let this get to me right now, maybe I'll worry for 10 minutes at 10 a.m. and 15 minutes later in the day, and we put some safeguards on protecting our own mental well-being," said Walker.
Walker is also a co-author of a book called Calm in the Chaos which outlines strategies for people to handle and understand their stress. You can find more information on her book here.
