Election (Result) Stress? You're Not Alone.

By Dr. Patty Gently on November 7, 2024

Bright Insight Support Network founder and president Dr. Patricia Gently is a trauma therapist and coach who specializes in EMDR and works with gifted neurodivergent and other marginalized populations. She is an experienced author, educator, and presenter who promotes integrated inclusivity, a holistic understanding of neurodiversity, and information integrity.

Election (Result) Stress? You're Not Alone.

Are you afraid?

Are you angry?

Are you exhausted?

I am afraid.

I am angry.

I am EXHAUSTED.

As a seasoned trauma therapist working with individuals of all backgrounds, I can tell you that these feelings are not just common; they are shared. The waves of dread, frustration, and exhaustion surrounding elections and their outcomes resonate through countless conversations I’ve had in therapy rooms. You are not alone in feeling consumed by worry—for your future, your community, or the state of the world.

I am nauseatingly sad. The weight of uncertainty feels like a constant, unwelcome presence. The collective apprehension around these moments can make even the most ‘resilient’ among us feel destabilized. And I know I am not alone, yet that knowledge doesn’t completely dissolve the aching solitude or the questions that keep surfacing: What can I do? How do I navigate this seemingly endless cycle of hope, disappointment, and renewal?

First, recognize that your emotions are valid and real. Allow yourself the grace of feeling whatever comes up—fear, anger, or exhaustion—without judgment. Radically accepting these feelings is not about surrendering to them. It's about acknowledging their presence as part of being human.

Second, connect. This is a time when reaching out to others is vital. This morning I cried with a family member as we problem-solved and made plans together. Engage in conversations like these, lean on those who share your values, or even seek out support groups or professional spaces where your experiences can be mirrored and understood. Just as I might remind clients, shared burdens can be easier to carry.

Finally, ask yourself: What small step can I take to nurture myself or contribute to change today? Maybe it’s limiting news exposure to protect your mental health, volunteering for a cause you believe in, or simply practicing deep breathing and grounding exercises when the anxiety swells.

We do not have control over every outcome—this is true. We do have power and influence over how we care for ourselves and others. This is not insignificant.

You are not alone, and there is hope in moving forward—together. And it may not look like one suspects. Hope may not be soft and fluffy this time. It may look gritty and unyielding, marked by determination and the quiet courage to face each day. It might be found in small acts of kindness, in moments of rest, or in the unwavering choice to keep going despite the heaviness.

If you find these emotions overwhelming or difficult to manage, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or community. National and local hotlines such as the **Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)**, the **988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline**, or the **Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678)**, are available 24/7 to provide assistance and support. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help navigating this challenging time.

I say it again: You are not alone.