Navigating stress, anxiety during a divisive election

As the Nov. 5 election nears, anxiety is surging for many Americans. Trepidation is normal during the runup to voting day, said Dr. Douglas Zatzick, a UW Medicine psychiatrist who practices at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. 

“Anxiety is actually a very common and natural response,” Zatzick said. “What it is, is feelings of uncertainty, anticipation, tension about the upcoming election.” 

Some of this year’s anxiety could be trauma related, he said, referencing the Jan. 6, 2021, mob attack on the nation’s Capitol as a potential traumatic trigger.  

To help regulate emotions tied to the election, Zatzick emphasized the importance of self-care. This includes routines that promote mental well-being, such as regular meals, adequate sleep, and engaging in activities that bring joy. 

“Take care of yourself, indulge yourself and surround yourself with good people during the next week or so,” he said.  

He suggested that people connect with friends who share similar hopes for the election outcome and who can offer support regardless of the results.  

“It's really important to know what triggers you, what you find stressful,” he said, mentioning social media as mechanisms that can cause frustration and anger. “I think people can have a lot of different reactions, but the most important things are to sort of get the basics down like regular meals and sleep, if that's important to you, knowing what's going to set you off.”  

Zatzick advises people to consider both the short term and long term.  

“In the short run, do what you need to stay regulated and have your gas tank full, and then in the long run, it will depend on what the results are, but that's where we're thinking about, how can things be different in 2028,” he said.

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