Navigating Post-Election Emotions: Self-Care Tips for Uncertain Times

The 2024 election results are in, with Donald Trump elected as President and Republicans taking control of the Senate, marking a significant shift in the political landscape. For many, these events evoke strong emotions, whether hope, disappointment, or anxiety. In times like this, it’s natural to feel an intensified mix of reactions. Politics can be a very personal issue, often touching on deeply held beliefs and lived experiences, which means responses to election outcomes are rarely straightforward.

Insights on staying grounded and caring for mental well-being can help as you process these events, whether alone or with others. It’s okay to feel deeply and take time to make sense of what’s next. Maia provides support for managing emotions, offering resources and an early prototype of our AI-powered advice column for anyone needing an extra layer of guidance.

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions

Election results can bring out strong reactions, especially when it comes to issues like gender equality, healthcare, and civil rights. Instead of trying to suppress feelings of anxiety or anger, allow yourself to feel these emotions fully. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that your feelings are valid.

If journaling or talking to a friend helps you make sense of your emotions, make time for that today. Expressing your thoughts can help put emotions in perspective and reduce feelings of isolation.

2. Feel Your Body

When emotions run high, tension often builds in the body. Taking a few minutes for deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation can help release this physical stress. Try this simple breathing technique:

1. Find a comfortable, quiet place to sit.
2. Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose, letting your lungs expand fully.
3. Exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing the breath fully.
4. Repeat this cycle several times, focusing on the sensation of your breath to help calm your mind and body.

Taking small steps like this can help you feel more relaxed and in control, no matter what’s going on around you.

3. Use Social Media as a Tool—Or Unplug If Needed

Social media can be both a valuable resource and a source of stress. It offers a way to stay connected, find like-minded individuals, and gain insights on important issues. However, if you find it’s adding to your stress, consider setting boundaries with how often you check your feeds.

Unplugging for even a few hours can offer some emotional relief. When you’re ready to engage again, curate your feed to include accounts that uplift and empower you. If you’re seeking community but feeling overwhelmed by debates, look for private support groups or follow accounts that promote mental wellness and constructive dialogue.

4. Reach Out and Connect

Isolation can make anxiety worse, so reach out to friends, family, or trusted individuals to talk through your feelings or simply enjoy their company. Whether it’s over a coffee, a phone call, or a quick chat, meaningful connections can provide emotional grounding. Remember, you’re not alone, and sometimes just being with others can remind you of the shared experience of these times.

If you feel like nobody can related to what you're going through, feel free to check out the new tool that we're building here.

5. Seek Professional Mental Health Support If You Need It

If your anxiety or stress feels overwhelming, consider reaching out for professional support. Therapy and counseling can provide tools to help manage emotions effectively, offering structured support that validates your experience.

At Maia, we’re committed to making mental health resources accessible to everyone, especially during challenging times. Explore our AI-powered advice column for personalized support—whether you need to process your emotions, reflect on the election, or simply have a space to feel heard. Let’s navigate these times together, empowered, informed, and with empathy for ourselves and each other.

PS: Join our Discord to give us feedback on our AI advice column prototype. More updates to come!