How To Take Care Of Yourself This Election Season

Coping Strategies

Practical coping strategies can significantly aid in managing overwhelming emotions. Lori Gottlieb emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal needs, whether it's connecting with someone or indulging in a solitary activity like taking a bath or engaging in creative pursuits 1. She suggests grounding exercises, such as feeling your feet on the ground, to stay present and calm 1. Sam Sanders highlights the cultural conversations around guilt and contentment, noting that it's okay to feel content even amidst widespread struggle 2.

   

Narrative Shift

Reframing personal narratives is crucial for resilience during challenging times. Sam Sanders shares his experience of shifting his mindset from questioning survival to acknowledging daily achievements, which fosters a sense of resilience 3. Lori Gottlieb adds that narratives are contagious, and a negative outlook can affect those around us 3. She also points out that the pandemic has taught us not to take things for granted, encouraging a reevaluation of what truly matters in life 4.

   

Self-Compassion

Self-compassion plays a vital role in maintaining mental health. Lori Gottlieb explains that we often bully ourselves with negative self-talk, which can be detrimental 5. She advises being mindful of the stories we tell ourselves and ensuring they are kind and accurate 5. Additionally, Sam Sanders6.