The 2020 election cycle has felt like no other before it. Our country is facing many issues in the midst of battling a pandemic, and it can be overwhelming even for the calmest, grounded person. As this wild election comes to a close this week, it’s normal to feel anxious or terrified of the results and subsequent consequences of it. And while the election is significant for every aspect of our country’s future, it is okay to take some time to regroup and focus on your mental health. It can be difficult to put your mental health first, especially since COVID has denied us some of our coping strategies such as a trip to the movies, or dinner drinks with friends in a crowded bar. However, we must put our health first, especially if it seems the world is burning. Here are my COVID safe tips for taking a break from Post-Election stress!
- Meet your basic needs
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Food, Sleep, Sunshine. We are human; we need to treat ourselves as such. We must take care of ourselves even when we feel we cannot. Sometimes, I think it is difficult to get out of bed and eat or shower, but to eventually lift the haze, we need to keep our bodies going.
- Social Media Break
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The news and even family Facebook posts can be overwhelming. Set some time aside to turn off your phone and instead take a long shower, re-read harry potter, or watch twilight. You are not a machine; you need breaks. However, if you cannot do so, set yourself a time limit such as 20 minutes to look at the news, then log off.
- Talk to a trusted friend or family member.
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Check-in with yourself and your loved ones; Catch up, tell stories, rant, laugh, cry, whatever you need! It will do good for both of you.
- Nervous System Calming and Grounding Exercises
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TikTok, Youtube, Twitter all have short videos on grounding exercises to affect your nervous system and help your body relax. My personal favorite is the Butterfly Hug.
- Focus on your Daily Routine
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Creating a list of daily tasks or a regimen can help you gain a sense of control in this unpredictable world in times of uncertainty.
- Exercise
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Go for a socially distant walk during the day with a family member or friend. Or if you are uncomfortable going outside, I recommend the free Youtube exercise video “Mamma Mia HIT workout”!
- Do more of what you love.
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Painting, Reading, Journaling (I suggest you write down your emotions and allow yourself to feel them)
- Watch a comfort movie with your family, roommate, or pet.
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Some of my favorite times involve me cuddled up with my dog watching a bad movie, and forgetting the world exists for two hours. Our furry friends take care of us as much as we take care of them!
Movie Recommendations: John Tucker Must Die, Death Becomes Her, Love Rosie, any Twilight movie or bad Hallmark Christmas flicks!
- Do Something Kind for Someone Else
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Whether big or small, acts of kindness are appreciated at all times. Leave groceries at your elderly neighbor’s door, make a cup of tea for someone you live with, help your mom with chores. You never know how impactful your act can be on someone, as they might be fighting similar battles as you.
- Reach out for Help
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These times are scary. It is essential to check in with yourself and know when to ask for help. Trained professionals are here and willing to aid you in whatever way you need.
Counseling and Mental Health Center Crisis Line (UT Students only)
https://cmhc.utexas.edu/24hourcounseling.html
If you are in an unsafe situation within your home, such as domestic violence (Silent Solutions)
Dial 999, and hit 55 if you are unable to speak
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800-273-8255
Crisis Text line
Text TALK to 741-741
SAMHSA Treatment Abuse Referral Hotline (Substance Abuse)
1-800-622-HELP (4357)