In the midst of a presidential election year, emotions are at an all-time high for Americans. With opinions running rampant, and social media comments heavy with unsolicited advice, it’s no secret election season can take it’s toll and clinical psychologist, Dr. Thea Gallagher is here to help us navigate it all.
LISTEN NOW: Dr. Thea Gallagher discusses the impact of an election year on mental health
Joining Audacy’s The Bubba Show for a segment of More Good Days In May in observance of mental health awareness month, Dr. Thea Gallagher shared some best tips and practices to surviving election season without sacrificing your mental health.
“We know from the last election cycle that there was an uptick in stress and anxiety for people” she shared before sharing her first tip of filtering your social media. “One of the things that I found interesting from this report that was put out called, 'Stress In America,' was that talking on Facebook to people about this content actually make people a lot more stressed and anxious.”
She continued, “I just think it goes to show, we really need to put limits and boundaries and I think this time around, a lot of us are going to do that. Like, ‘Hey, there are people in my life that I love, that I want to stay in my life, but if we talk about certain topics it is only going to make me more stressed, more agitated.' Let’s find the things we connect on with each other and not the things that distance.”
Next, Dr. Gallagher recommends finding trusted news sources and keeping realistic perspective when getting involved in a cause. “If you want to get involved in a cause, in something that you feel like is working towards your values, great, but then you also have to step back and disconnect and ask yourself the question, ‘How much of this can I control? What can I control? What can’t I control?’”
LISTEN NOW: Dr. Thea Gallagher discusses the importance of talking to loved ones about mental health and suicide
Dealing with the things outside of our control is where most Americans struggle most and to navigate that, Dr. Gallagher preaches the idea of mindfulness — being present and in the moment. “There are so many things that we can’t control… that’s why it’s so important — even with the state of the world to try to continue to bring ourselves back to the present to enjoy that moment while we’re having our morning coffee, to be where we are, in the moment.”
For hear more about navigating the election while tending to your mental health, as well as other helpful tips about addressing mental health struggles, take a listen to Dr. Thea Gallagher’s conversation with Audacy’s The Bubba Show above.
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here.