Election Related Depression
The next presidential election is coming soon, which means it's that time again for most Americans to start feeling that election stress. Who do I vote for? When do I vote? How do I register? Does my vote matter? Based on a case study done by the American Psychological Association in 2016, the election period brings the average emotional stress in the general public to rise above 52%, whether you’re a democrat, republican, libertarian or independent.
As election campaigns begin, negativity in society beings to boil in the hearts of every American citizen. Candidate speeches are generally meant to persuade and influence the people to act but they’re often dripping with hidden negativity, which increases stress among voters. History has shown us that emotions win elections. We the people might think we want a more positive campaign that heightens our feelings of hope for the future, but its negative emotions that fuel our drive to act. People are more likely to vote if they're worried that they’ll lose something in the election. While elections can be seen as a time for hope and change, they are nothing less but stress inducers. Feelings of depression and anger can lead people to feel hopeless, and begin to think that their vote doesn’t matter or that nothing will change.
Election depression can often make the election seem more confusing, clouding our better judgment when it comes time to vote. We all know when the election is drawing closer cause tv channels will be bombarded with campaign commercials and voting ads. Limiting your exposure to the media can help keep your head clear, and is one of the best tips for those struggling with election depression. Know your limits to discussing politics and researching the possibility of online voting instead of in-person can help lessen the effects of election depression.
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