Surviving Election Grief, When It’s Hard
Although they happen on a routine basis, elections can be a time of heightened emotions for many individuals, regardless of political affiliation. While some celebrate victories, others may face feelings of grief and uncertainty. In recent years, elections in the United States have brought intense rhetoric and divisive language on all outlets of our daily lives from the online to the physical world. In addition to the divisive language, many media outlets heighten uncertainties and even give a forum for deceitful and hateful language. Often media sources target people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other marginalized communities. Many find themselves struggling to make sense of their feelings in the wake of the results.
To make matters even more complex with holiday stress, individuals can find themselves in disagreement, and this divisive language can even be heard around family and friends during gatherings. The term “Election grief” can capture the mixture of emotions many people feel during and after elections. Some may call it grief, stress, or anxiety, following the uncertainty of what lies ahead, or concern for the well-being of vulnerable groups.

This grief can be especially intense for communities that have historically faced discrimination and marginalization. Elections often amplify feelings of vulnerability when language used during campaigns seems to disregard or diminish the lived experiences of people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants, and other minorities. These feelings are valid and deserve acknowledgement and understanding.
One of the most challenging aspects of recent elections has been the rhetoric that targets certain communities. This can include being exposed to the constant reminders on social media and online aside from the physical world. These words and narratives do more than divide, they can create a feeling of fear and mistrust for those who are directly impacted. For people in marginalized groups, being exposed to constant online bullying or hate can feel like a re-traumatization, a reminder that they are still fighting for equal recognition and rights. This makes the sense of grief deep and make it harder to stay hopeful or optimistic in the days following an election.

If an individual is experiencing grief or even just a sense of uncertainty, it’s important to know that you are not alone. Many others are struggling to process their emotions and navigate their mental health after an election Here are some tips for coping with the grief:
- Allow Yourself to Feel: It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or anxious and everything in between. Acknowledging these emotions is the first step to move forward towards hope. Suppressing feelings can lead to greater emotional distress over time.
- Limit Online Consumption: The constant accessibility of news and social media can amplify feelings of distress. Setting boundaries around how much time you spend consuming election-related news. Choose reliable sources and take breaks when needed. Quick tip: add a time limit to your apps!
- Connect with Your Friends, Family, and Community: Lean on your support networks, whether it’s friends, family, or online groups that understand what you’re going through. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with others who are also processing the election can provide comfort and a sense of solidarity.
- Practice Self-Care: Self-care looks different for everyone. It may be finding time for a favorite hobby, watching your favorite movie or show, or a walk. Do what feels good for your mental and emotional health.
- Seek Professional Support: consider reaching out to a mental health professional if you find yourself overwhelmed. Therapy can be a space to unpack and navigate your emotions in a safe and open environment. Our team is trained to support you through the complexities of grief.
“The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
It is important to remember to take care of ourselves, grief does not have a quick fix. Feeling uncertain or anxious about the future is understandable during an election, knowing that there are many others and communities who share your concerns and are working towards a more inclusive, compassionate world. Remember to focus on what you can control, whether it’s connecting with your community, supporting local organizations, or engaging in self-care, you can lead a way to find hope through the grief.
Elections are inevitable, the strength to move forward and advocate for a better future remains within us. Let’s continue to support one another, honor our feelings, and work towards a healthier wellbeing. If you or someone you know is struggling with election-related grief or anxiety, please reach out for support. You deserve to be heard, validated, and supported during this time!
If you are in crisis, please reach out to one of these crisis support lines:
LGBTQ Teens: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/
SF Crisis Line: (415) 781-0500
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 800-273-8255
Text CRISIS, YOUTH or HIV to (415) 200-2920 to text with a counselor

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