Struggling with an Election Hangover?

If you are struggling in the aftermath of the U.S. election season, you are not alone. For my readers in other countries, no doubt you have experienced political and cultural upheavals of all kinds. As a life coach based out of Washington, D.C., I can tell you that the U.S. presidential election has occupied the minds and hearts of many clients. While we don’t talk politics in our sessions, clients look to coaching to explore their anxiety, anger, lack of balance, and frustrations. Over the past week or so, I have had many conversations that revolve around this and related topics.

This kind of emotional burnout can leave you feeling like you’ve run a marathon but without the physical exhaustion. Many of us are experiencing emotional and mental fatigue right now. This feeling extends beyond learning the results of an election—it can linger for days, weeks, or even longer.

Why & How Does an “Election Hangover” Happen?

1. Emotional Investment

Our beliefs, values, and traditions often feel amplified during election season. Whether we are rooting for a candidate, advocating for a cause, debating with friends and family, going door to door as a campaign volunteer, or just emotionally involved in the process, that level of intensity can take its toll.

2. Information Overload

The sheer amount of information we consume during election season (news updates, social media posts, political ads, and more) can lead to mental fatigue. After the election, our brains can still be processing all of that data, which makes it harder to relax and feel at peace.

3. Conflict and Division

This election was especially divisive. Whether you feel joy or frustration about the outcome, there can be a sense of disconnection or division that lingers afterward. I have even seen social media posts where people have stated, “if you voted for X candidate, please unfollow me. We have nothing to discuss.”

4. Uncertainty

Election results often bring uncertainty about the future. We worry policies may change, relationships might shift, and we can be left wondering what comes next.

The good news? There are ways to heal, recover, restore your peace, and regain hope for the future. Here are some effective strategies that combine practical advice and self-care for recovery from the election hangover.

How to Reclaim Your Peace and Still Work for Change in a Chaotic World

1. Take a Break from the News (and Social Media)

   It’s easy to get caught up in the constant news cycle and social media debates, especially after a big election. But prolonged exposure to political content can intensify feelings of stress and anxiety.  Action Tip: Give yourself permission to take a real break from social media. Take a step back and reset. Whether it’s for a day or a week, stepping away from the constant flow of information gives your mind a chance to breathe. You don’t need to be constantly plugged in to stay informed. Take breaks for your mental well-being.

2. Ground Yourself in the Present Moment

   When we’re caught in the whirlwind of emotions during an election, it’s easy to lose touch with the present. But to recover from an election hangover, it’s important to ground yourself in the here and now. Action Tip: Try practicing grounding exercises like deep breathing, mindfulness, or taking a walk outside. Getting outside, reconnecting with nature, and taking a few moments to breathe can have a powerful impact on your mental clarity. Grounding activities bring your focus back to what’s in front of you, not the endless stream of what-ifs and political chaos.

3. Limit Your Conversations About Politics

   It’s tempting to continue discussing politics endlessly, especially with family and friends who may have opposing views. But sometimes, these conversations only escalate feelings of frustration or stress. Action Tip: Set boundaries in political discussions. Politely redirect conversations when they get too heated or overwhelming. It’s okay to change the subject or even take a break from conversations that trigger anxiety. Protect your peace by engaging in lighter, more positive discussions, and remember that you’re allowed to step away from debates that don’t serve your well-being.

4. Reclaim Your Time and Energy

   After an intense election cycle, it’s crucial to check in with your body and mind and give them the care they need. This might mean rediscovering hobbies or engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. The entire world does not have to rest on your shoulders. In fact, you’ll be more useful to the world when you first care for yourself.

   Action Tip: Take time to do what nourishes your soul—whether it’s reading a good book, spending time with loved ones, or indulging in a creative hobby you enjoy. Reclaiming your energy means taking care of yourself, and filling your cup with positivity.

5. Reflect on What You Can Control

   Elections are emotional and unpredictable, and the results may leave you feeling powerless or uncertain. But instead of focusing on what you can’t control, it’s important to turn your attention to what is within your power.

   Action Tip: Take a moment to reflect on where you can make an impact—whether in your personal life, within your community, or in the way you choose to engage with the world. You can’t control the results of an election, but you can control how you show up and how you take care of yourself.

6. Give Yourself Time to Process and Reassess Your Priorities

   It’s easy to think that we should bounce back immediately after an emotional event like an election, but healing takes time. Whether you are feeling anger, frustration, or bewilderment, allow yourself the grace to take things slowly. If you are feeling celebratory, keep yourself in balance and join a community you can be part of to build towards a better future. Action Tip: Healing is a process. Take a mental health day if you need it, and allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up. Be kind to yourself and compassionate and generous to others.  Your mental and emotional health is a priority.

7. Moving Forward with Calm and Clarity

   Recovering from an election hangover isn’t about ignoring the political landscape or pretending everything is fine. It’s about regaining your sense of balance and peace, so you can move forward with clarity and resilience.