I don’t know about you, but politics, as a young adult, can be one of the most stressful things. You’re still trying to figure out who you are and what matters to you — especially politically. At this point in time, voting is so important. And doing research to figure out who you think will best be in power is essential.
All this information can be overwhelming, I know. That’s why you need time to breathe and de-stress, especially during the political midterms season. Self-care is a great way to fight the political anxiety that you may be overwhelmed with, and put you in a more secure place to go to the polls and vote.
Put down your phone.
Taking some time away from social media can actually be beneficial, especially for your mental health. Read a book, start a new TV series, watch a movie, listen to a good podcast, and just consume anything that will help you clear your thoughts. Political anxiety comes from worry and stress about our future, and social media can totally amplify that. Taking some time to clear your mind can help you see the bigger picture of these circumstances.
Let’s be zen and put down the phone for a few hours, and just chill. Maybe even get one of those lockbox things from TikTok that will allow you to control the amount of time you stay away from your phone. Hey, anything helps.
Get some exercise.
This is the time when a Hot Girl Walk is needed! Sweat out all that anxiety, get some fresh air, and breathe in positivity — and out negativity. You may drag your feet to work out, but the aftermath will make you feel better than you think.
Have you ever just blasted music, ran on the treadmill, and just lost track of time? Or, have you gone for a swim and just spaced out from your surroundings? Exercising will have a positive affect on you mentally, physically, and emotionally and possibly help you with any anxiety you’re feeling about the election.
Talk it out.
Getting some advice, or just talking about your feelings, can help you gather your thoughts during this stressful time. It’s easy to feel like you don’t need to talk to anyone, or that your emotions aren’t valid. Though politics is something that can bring you so much anxiety, communicating your feelings to a professional, family member, or friend can make you feel much better.
Your feelings are valid, and don’t feel like any of your emotions are too big or too small for anyone. There is always going to be someone there to listen to what you have to say. Political anxiety is something that many young adults deal with, and you are not alone.
Try journaling.
Maybe talking to someone is not for you — but you could still write out your feelings! Jotting down the things that are on your mind, then sitting down and looking at those thoughts from all angles can help clear your mind.
When it comes to journaling, it doesn’t have to be like “dear diary” or just a page full of your feelings,— it can be whatever you make it: Jotting down a poem, writing out some manifestations, planning your day, whatever makes you most comfortable.
Treat yourself to a spa day.
Finally, treat yourself to a nice day at the spa or have a relaxing night at home with a face mask, manicure, pedicure, and a soothing bath. This is the ultimate self-care treat that you can do for yourself, by yourself, for your political anxiety. Just look at all the YouTubers and Influencers who film self-care days and get some inspo for what products to use and how to get the greatest spa-like experience.
Don’t let political anxiety steal your joy. Make self-care a habit, especially during the stressful election season. You never know, maybe this will make you more prepared and happy for when the elections start knowing there is a sheet mask calling your name after a trip to the ballot box.