Title: Nearly Three-Quarters of Americans Anxious Ahead of Presidential Election: Expert Offers Coping Strategies
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — As Election Day approaches, nearly three-quarters of adults in the United States report feeling anxious about the presidential election. The relentless news cycle and social media discourse are contributing to a heightened sense of unrest. In a recent segment on KCRA 3, Dr. Jim Raines from Kaiser Permanente provided valuable insights on managing these feelings effectively.
Dr. Raines acknowledged that the anxiety surrounding elections often stems from people focusing on aspects that are beyond their control. “It’s human nature for us to lean into the overwhelming narrative,” he said. “Finding a way to achieve some balance is crucial for our overall well-being.”
In a world inundated with information and uncertainty, the challenge is to navigate these emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Dr. Raines emphasized the importance of recognizing your emotional responses rather than letting them spiral. Drawing on the wisdom of psychologist Albert Ellis, he stated, “The problem isn’t that you get upset; it’s that you add to your upsetness.” This perspective echoes biblical teachings about maintaining peace of mind amidst turmoil.
The Bible instructs us to focus on what we can control and to seek inner peace. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Dr. Raines shared several practical strategies to cope with election anxiety:
- Focus on what you can control: Redirect your energy toward actions and decisions that are within your power.
- Prioritize self-care: Engage in healthy routines such as proper nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness practices—activities that can ground you during turbulent times.
- Take breaks from the information overload: Stepping back from news cycles and social media can alleviate feelings of overwhelm.
- Recognize your emotional responses: Understand that it’s normal to feel anxious and that acknowledging these feelings is the first step to managing them.
- Focus on the bigger picture: Keeping a perspective that transcends the immediate election can provide clarity and reduce stress.
As various outcomes unfold during the election process, it’s important for individuals to return to positive routines and practices that promote peace. “Keeping a routine gives a sense of agency,” Dr. Raines noted, encouraging viewers to uphold their daily commitments in the face of uncertainty.
Encouraging Takeaway: As we navigate the complexities of societal events like elections, let us remember to root ourselves in faith and community. Just as we seek support from mental health professionals, we can also gather strength from the divine and the reassuring principles of love, peace, and balance taught by Jesus.
In this season of heightened emotions, reflect on how grounding yourself in gratitude and focusing on what you can control might bring you peace beyond measure.
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