Post-election anxiety is a common problem many people face after a particularly contentious election season. The result of the election can have a profound effect on our lives and our future, which can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. This could be the problem of almost 90% of young people and the entire voting age of the Nigerian population right now.
Anxiety is the intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fears about everyday situations. This can be marked by a fast heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, and feeling tired. Many first-time voters are prone to develop post-election anxiety due to the unexpected outcome of the election. Fortunately, there are some steps we can take to help manage our post-anxiety and move forward in a healthy and productive manner:
- Stay physically active: You should keep yourself as active as possible. Occupy yourself with meaningful activities, especially with things that will improve your emotions positively.
- Take a break from the news and social media: With the 24/7 news cycle and the constant bombardment of information on social media, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Taking a break from the news and social media can help to provide some much-needed respite and give you some time to process your feelings.
- Take care of your body: eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, cutting back on caffeinated beverages, and exercising can help to reduce post-election stress and boost your mood.
- Recognize and accept your feelings: This can be done through talking to friends and family, writing in a journal, or engaging in other activities that help you process your emotions.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs; stay off alcohol to avoid more emotional stress.
- Take some time off political discussions.
Author: Godwin Otang