Nashville, Tenn. – How the Election is Affecting Our Mental Health
As we count down the days to election night, many people in Nashville and across the nation are feeling the pressure. It’s no secret that these are pretty tense times, and recent findings suggest that the uncertainty of the forthcoming election is significantly weighing on people’s minds. In fact, a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association revealed that a whopping 69% of adults say this election is one of the biggest sources of stress in their lives.
Anxiety Takes Center Stage
When we think about it, that statistic makes a lot of sense. The anxiety stemming from not knowing what the outcome will be can be really overwhelming. On top of that, many people are keeping up with international events, which can also contribute to feelings of unease. Dr. Joseph Sharpe, a well-respected psychiatrist based here in our beloved Nashville, has noted a noticeable rise in mental health concerns during this election period.
Dr. Sharpe points out that for many, the anxiety isn’t just about the elections themselves. It’s also about being surrounded by opinions—whether it’s at home, in the workplace or on social media. “People are constantly bombarded with information,” he mentions, “and for some, that makes things worse.”
The Social Media Dilemma
Speaking of social media, it can be both a blessing and a curse. While it helps us connect with friends and stay informed, it can also contribute to heightened stress levels, especially when discussions get heated. Dr. Sharpe has a simple yet powerful piece of advice: set boundaries on how much time you spend on social media. Whether that means taking a break from certain platforms or even unfollowing accounts that trigger anxiety, you might just find some welcome relief.
Staying Civil in Uncertain Times
In light of the intense emotions surrounding this election, Dr. Sharpe emphasizes the importance of staying civil. “At the end of the day,” he says, “we’re all human beings with our own perspectives.” Focusing on empathy and understanding can go a long way in easing tensions between friends and family, especially when conversations might lean toward the contentious side.
Focusing on What You Can Control
So, what can you do to keep your mental health in check during this stressful time? Dr. Sharpe advises that the best course of action is to concentrate on the things within your control. That could mean taking part in activities that uplift you—such as working out, picking up a hobby, or just chatting with friends to clear your mind. “Exercise is a great stress reliever,” he notes. Not only does it improve your physical well-being, but it also releases those feel-good endorphins that can help buffer against stress.
Take Care of Each Other
As we approach election night, how about checking in on loved ones? Sometimes a simple conversation can do wonders for mental health. Make it a point to reach out to someone. Ask how they’re feeling, or share your own thoughts and feelings. Remember, we’re all in this together!
In conclusion, as we brace for the upcoming election, being aware of our mental health and actively taking steps to alleviate stress can truly make a difference. Let’s all aim to focus on what we can control, support each other, and approach this tumultuous period with a sense of camaraderie and understanding.
