various political buttons — *political buttons*

This election cycle is extremely stressful. We're cooked, we're done, we are over it, yet we keep getting pummeled on all sides, from nonstop media coverage and political discussions to social media and our own friends and family. The exhaustion, fear, anger, bitterness, anticipation, and stress, are real and can feel overwhelming.

Here are some practical, proven ways to survive this stressful time.

Control what you take in: it's time to stop with the constant exposure to news. Set limits on how many times a day you check the news and make sure you are using verified sources (links below). You control how much media coverage you allow into your brain.
Ask yourself, will this affect how I vote? Probably not. So stop stressing yourself out.
Set social media limits: social media is especially dangerous right now. We have proof that outside sources ( links below) have a vested interest in causing division and chaos. There's a really good chance that meme or news blurb that upset you was completely made up just to upset you. Most of what you're reading and seeing on social media reading isn't real.

Avoid discussing politics on social media. You’re not changing anyone’s mind. It won't change who you're voting for and chances are, you're talking to a robot anyway.

So stop. Put limits on how much time you spend on social media and change your algorithm to something that makes you happy and joyful. Like cute animal videos. Or go into your settings and set time limits for each app.
Nature is your friend: We all know that spending time outside in nature, looking at trees and the sky, will reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. This is the time to do it! Go for a 20-minute walk. Work in your garden. Sit in the backyard and listen to the birds. Read a book outside. Notice your stress levels afterward.
Prayer and meditation: these are ancient practices that focus on self-reflection and mindfulness, which are proven to be extremely effective in reducing stress and anxiety. Taking time for deep reflection allows you to pause, connect with your inner self, and find meaning and acceptance beyond worry. Give yourself 20 minutes and breathe deeply.
Have a plan for the days after the election: planning how you will spend the rest of the week after election day can help your mental health. Can you arrange a day off or a mini vacation? Maybe you can focus on a beloved hobby or comfort when you get home. Hope for the future, and plan now on how you want to spend this time.
Realize what you can and cannot control: This is the best way to achieve inner peace in unstable times. We cannot control outcomes, the opinions of others, or the political climate. But we can control how we respond, by setting boundaries with media, voting, spending time outside, and managing our stress.