Post-Election Stress Disorder

“In a crisis, be aware of the danger, but recognize the opportunity”. — John F. Kennedy,
35th President of the United States of America

Today is the 61st anniversary of the assassination of JFK, the first US president I was really aware of. He averaged a 70% approval rating and I can’t help but wonder what he would react to our current political situation. Far from perfect, he has gone down in history as quite inspirational and respected for keeping a cool head in a crisis.

While some are celebrating the recent presidential election, many are reeling and suffering grave anxiety and depression. And we as a culture will continue to live with many question marks over the next few months and beyond the inauguration. If you are one of the many who are suffering anxiety and/or depression, here are some suggestions for self-care:

1. Commit to your health, both physical and mental. They are inexorably interconnected and it is crucial when experiencing stress to keep your instrument primed. Eat nutritious foods, get sufficient sleep and exercise, and keep a positive support system.
2. Unplug. Take a break from the news, the political shows, reading papers. There was a time when these were not available 24/7, and people managed to live their lives….possibly with considerably less stress.
3. Mind your focus. We get what we focus on, and what we focus on expands. It’s been said that worrying is praying for what you don’t want. Redirect your thoughts to what you can control right now. Just live your life as if you mean it.
4. Lighten up. Go to a comedy club, a movie, a concert, a sports event, a play, an art gallery, an amusement park. You’ll get some endorphins pumping and offset the anxiety and depression.
5. If you truly are concerned with issues facing our nation, then use your righteous anger to make a difference. Join your political party’s local chapter, join a human rights campaign, write your congressperson, volunteer to support a future candidate, or the recently elected one/s in your community. Turn your complaints into action.

Of course if your anxiety or depression is overwhelming, seek professional help, contact a spiritual leader, or join a support group. We are all Americans and are all in this together.

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
— Anne Lamott

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