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How to reduce anxiety related to election discussions
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How to reduce anxiety related to election discussions

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Voting may be over, but the discussions about elections and politics continue. And these conversations can cause tensions to rise.

Many people use social media to share their thoughts. Despite all the rhetoric online, mental health professionals said there are some things you can do if you have trouble talking about politics.

“In setting limits on conversations, how much do you want to talk about the election? said Emma Harding, Director of Education and Outreach Programs at Tanager Place.

“Take breaks from your screens. Stay away from doom scrolling,” said Kurt Rogahn of NAMI.

Kurt Rogahn, program coordinator for the Linn County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI, said it’s important to know When talk politics with my friends and family.

“Know your limits. There may be family members you can’t discuss the election with and won’t upset people. Don’t get upset,” Rogahn said.

And with extreme discussions online on both sides of the conversation, Harding said limiting time spent on social media can help some control their mental health.

“There are also limits around social media and the amount of news you view. For some people, I think it can help them. And for others, it can cause more stress,” she said.

Harding added that if you’re afraid of setting these boundaries with your friends or family, this can help you practice what you want to say.

“It’s really taking a few minutes to really analyze what the best route is for you, but really staying true to some of those boundaries so that you can have some sort of protection over yourself and that’s something that you can control,” Harding said.