Mental health experts say these high-stakes elections have put public opinion under great pressure, due to the tactics used by political parties during the campaign.

A large number of Americans report feeling stressed and anxious about the presidential election as tensions continue to rise as the final countdown to Election Day approaches. Voters across states have expressed nervousness and angst as Republican and Democratic candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris wrap up their campaigns.

According to mental health experts, this high-stakes election has put public opinion under great pressure, due to the tactics used by political parties when campaigning for their candidates. It is therefore necessary for those who suffer from stress and anxiety to control them, through simple tips that they can follow:

Exercise

Although exercise and workouts are generally good for physical and mental health, experts believe that in times of stress, engaging in physical activities can help calm you down.

According to psychologists, do not neglect your daily self-care routines which should include walking, jogging, cycling or swimming, apart from your daily work or household chores. These activities not only make you active but are also good for your brain.

Maintain boundaries

Although political discussions can ultimately break down relationships, it doesn’t have to come to that. Experts advise trying to set boundaries for your own mental health and well-being.

Have pleasant discussions with an open mind without constantly judging the other person. Additionally, it is important to listen to the other person’s point of view in the same way you want them to understand yours. Also, let go of things said during a discussion and don’t take them to heart.

Stay away or limit social media

Social media has a tendency to form opinions which, when not heard or understood, can lead to a lot of stress, anxiety, depression and even violent impulses.

So, according to experts, news or opinions from the Internet should only be used for information and not for validation. Don’t try to verify your identity or your own sanity based on what’s on TV or on your phone.

Doctors warn people about doomscrolling – spending excessive time reading large amounts of information, especially negative information, on the web and social media – which easily fuels negativity. So it’s important to set a timer on social media apps to limit doom scrolling and set limits on phone notifications.

Keep your phone silent or away from you when you are with friends or having a meal at the dining table, as this can cause many distractions.

Avoid talking politics

Although this is one of the best ways to learn about the subject, you should avoid discussing politics everywhere. During election time, tense conversations reign supreme, increasing levels of stress and anxiety.

Election stress increases among children

According to statistics, it is not only adults who experience election anxiety, but also those who do not actively participate in elections. Experts say that seeing their parents makes even children feel depressed.

“Parents should discuss the emotions of election season with their children,” Dr. Matt Edelstein, a clinical psychologist at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, told CBS News. “Recognize their stress because it validates their feelings and helps them connect what they are feeling to what is actually happening in the world,” he added. Edelstein also suggests dealing with overwhelming media exposure.

“What’s important is that we explain our emotions to our children and show them how we can have emotions and still be regulated and rational,” he said.