When Election Results Sting: A Mental Health Roadmap for Political Disappointment

As the nation awaits the results of hard-fought midterm elections, mental health experts are offering guidance on managing potential disappointment, anger, and anxiety if one's preferred candidates or outcomes do not prevail.

"It's normal to feel let down if your candidates lose," said Lynn Bufka of the American Psychological Association. "Allow yourself to feel those emotions rather than bottling them up."

Naming specific feelings like betrayal, anger, or fear can paradoxically ease their intensity, according to Jenna Glover of Headspace. "It levels you so you don't get lost in the swirl."

Experts advise unplugging from a relentless election news cycle in such situations. "Hearing constant analysis doesn't help if the results disappoint you," Glover said.

Resisting speculation about worst-case scenarios is also wise. "Stay focused on the present," urged Glover. She recommended planning soothing activities like exercise beforehand if tough emotions loom.

Mindfulness tactics like breathwork can keep people grounded versus fixating on an uncertain future beyond one's control. "For some, it's as simple as focusing on inhaling and exhaling," Glover noted.

Recalling resilience through past challenges provides reassuring perspective. "We remind people of previous elections where results didn't go their way, discuss what helped them cope, and suggest applying those strategies again," said Shye Louis of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Proper self-care like quality sleep is critical during turbulent times which can disrupt such routines. Louis and Glover advise best practices like limiting screen exposure before bed.

"If anxiety continuously impairs sleep, or mood and behaviors shift, reach out for help," said Matt Kudish of NAMI-NYC. "Most of us need guidance finding the right solution."

Kudish encourages people to voice troubles to trusted confidantes first. Counseling may provide an objective outlet. "A non-judgmental third party can reset spiraling emotions and put election results in perspective," Glover explained.

When disappointment feels profound, channeling it into positive action can be therapeutic. "Each person can have local impact by volunteering for causes they believe in or engaging more with municipal government," Glover said.

Ultimately, Glover reminds, "Life continued after past elections where your preferred candidates didn't win. This too shall pass, even if it stings initially."