Minor: The hidden toll of election stress — a call for mental health awareness

Sentari Minor

Submitted photo

As Election Day looms, a palpable tension is gripping the nation. Recent research reveals a concerning trend: nearly 40% of Americans report signs of anxiety or depression linked to the upcoming election season.

With political polarization at an all-time high and an unrelenting news cycle, it’s no surprise that many are feeling overwhelmed. This phenomenon underscores the urgent need to address the mental health impact of elections and the role of social media in exacerbating these feelings.

The data speaks for itself. A staggering 38% of Americans find that news and social media surrounding the election amplify their anxiety, while 35% describe a sense of being “checked out” due to the incessant flow of information. The constant barrage of updates, opinions, and partisan rhetoric can create an environment of fear and uncertainty, leading to emotional fatigue.

What’s particularly alarming is that only 37% of those diagnosed with anxiety or depression are currently seeking professional help. This gap highlights a critical need for increased awareness and access to mental health resources. The stigma surrounding mental health treatment often prevents individuals from reaching out for support, especially in a context where political discussions can be divisive and emotionally charged.

Organizations like evolvedMD are stepping up to bridge this gap by integrating behavioral health services into primary care. By making mental health support more accessible and affordable, they provide an essential resource for individuals struggling with election-related stress. The integration of mental health into primary care is vital — not just during election season, but all year long.

So, why does the election cycle impact our mental health so profoundly? The continuous exposure to politically charged content can skew our perception of reality, making it difficult to distinguish between informed discussion and sensationalism.

Social media platforms, designed to keep us engaged, often amplify negativity and division, creating an echo chamber that can distort our understanding of the issues at hand.

Recognizing the signs of election-related stress is crucial. Symptoms may include heightened anxiety, feelings of helplessness and a pervasive sense of doom. If you or someone you know is experiencing these feelings, limit your exposure to social media and set boundaries around news coverage, engage in self-care and don’t be ashamed to reach out for professional help. 

Professional help can provide coping strategies and a safe space to navigate these challenging emotions. We recommend scheduling a visit with your primary care physician to discuss your heightened stress and anxiety.  In many cases, you can see a behavioral health specialist the same day.

Communities must also come together to foster environments where open discussions about mental health are normalized. Resources like evolvedMD can play a pivotal role in this, providing education on the impact of the election on mental well-being and offering practical tools for managing stress.

As we approach Election Day, it’s imperative that we prioritize our mental health. Let’s advocate for open conversations about the emotional toll of politics, seek out supportive resources and recognize that it’s okay to step back when the noise becomes too overwhelming. Together, we can mitigate the stress of the electoral process and emerge more resilient, regardless of the outcome.

Editor’s note: Sentari Minor is chief of staff and head of investor relations for evolvedMD. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.