If you’re upset with the election result like almost everyone else is, then you may be scrambling to get your anxiety under control. This can be somewhat difficult, given the fact that you may feel trapped and only have work to keep your mind occupied with. If work isn’t cutting it for you, then you may want to try some other things, like the ones listed below, to distract yourself from the election results.
Go Hiking
Going hiking or taking a nature walk is a great way to manage your anxiety and get your mind off of the election results and the actions the President-Elect will take. Spending time in nature is an awesome coping skill for those who suffer with mental illness, and even if you’ve never experienced depressive symptoms, it may help with any lurking anxiety attacks. Who knows? You may even see something cool or make a fun memory.
Read a Book
Finding an engaging book to fall in love with will probably be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. Not only does it provide a great distraction, but it stimulates your imagination, maintains your reading comprehension, and gives you an excuse to pass the time.
One of the great things about reading is that it can take you from your home or dorm to a place where the election results don’t matter.
That alone should give you a reason to pick up a book and start reading.
Reach Out
Before you skip over this suggestion because you’ll probably never do this anyways, consider a few things first. If you reach out to your fellow classmate or roommate or even call your mom, you won’t be thinking about the election. Instead, you’ll be providing service to individuals dealing with other issues and you won’t even have time to think about the negative things happening in the world.
This not only provides a great distraction, but it also helps you make friends while doing some good.
Eventually, you’ll have to come to terms with the election results. When you’re ready, you can do this effectively by understanding that it’s going to be okay. Classes all over the country will continue, and the world will calm down soon enough.