We all know that dwelling in these feelings isn’t healthy, but how can you calm down and quell this rising tide of anxiety? How to really relax? We spoke to seven therapists to get their expert opinions and surveyed them Teen Vogue personal on how they remain grounded in chaos.

How to Cope with Election Anxiety

As we wait for the results, experts understand that the lack of control we have over elections can be distressing. Finding small ways to gain some control – like limiting our use of social media or practicing mindfulness – can be very helpful. Here are some tips for managing election anxiety while counting votes:

Log out

“It is crucial to remain vigilant about the impact that the dynamics of the election period can have on us. Be aware of how certain political issues or headlines trigger intense emotional reactions in you, because these reactions can cloud your judgment and lead you into unnecessary drama. Anxiety often occurs when we feel out of control. Setting limits on media consumption is therefore a way to regain control and avoid getting overwhelmed. Focus on constructive conversations and activities that promote understanding rather than deepening divisions. -Dr. Scott Lyonsdoctorate

Follow your own rules

“Many teens feel pressured to constantly be informed about election updates, but this can quickly become unbearable. I encourage setting specific times to check news from one to two trusted sources, rather than scrolling through social media. This balanced approach helps you stay informed while protecting your mental health. –Shannon Hanrahan, Ph.D.., Chairman of the Board of Directors of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

Visit your friends and family

“Practicing mindfulness and grounding exercises can help you stay in the present. Spend time with your loved ones, engage in physical activities and take care of yourself. Focus on the things that are within your control so you don’t feel helpless while you wait for the election results. –Bisma AnwarLPC, LMHC, Talkspace Therapist

Determine What You Can Control

“When dealing with an election loss, it’s helpful to distinguish between what you can and what you can’t control. While you can’t control the overall outcome, you can control how you respond, how you support others, and how you continue to advocate for the issues that matter to you. Focus your energy on these areas of action and reach out to trusted adults, friends, or mental health professionals who can provide support. –Robin Andersen, LMFTformer Chairman of the Board of Directors of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

Breathe

“As we await election results, our bodies may find themselves stuck in a fight-or-flight response. Taking moments throughout the day to practice grounding exercises—like feeling your feet on the ground, noticing five things you can see, or taking ten slow breaths—can help reset your nervous system and reduce anxiety. -Joy Alafia, executive director of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

How to Cope If Your Candidate Loses

Once we get past the waiting phase, a new type of anxiety and stress can arise if our favorite candidate loses. It’s so understandable: There’s a lot at stake. If you’re feeling upset about the election results, these experts have advice on how to refocus your thoughts and ease the stress you’re feeling about the years to come.

Take action

“While it may be painful if your candidate loses, remember that we Americans are more alike than different. You can also stay active and advocate for causes you care about, regardless of the outcome. Taking action can help manage disappointment and stress. –Jill DainoLCSW-R, Talkspace therapist

But also take breaks

“If you’re struggling with intense emotions after an election, remember that it’s okay to take breaks from the news and social media while still staying engaged. Creating a balance between being informed and protecting your mental health is crucial for lasting civic engagement. –Holly DanielsPhD, LMFT, Executive Director of Clinical Affairs, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

How to relax

Okay, so you hung up the phone, turned off the TV, and asked your mom to stop yapping about the polls. What comes next? Sitting and staring at a wall probably won’t be enough to calm your fear, so I asked the Teen Vogue team how they keep their brains busy and their fear at bay (or at least try to).

Get your hands dirty

As I As I anxiously await the results, I’ll be sewing, crocheting, and weaving to keep my hands and brain occupied – and my eyes off a screen. These kinds of projects hold my attention so well that I find little reason to worry when I’m doing them. Who knows, maybe I’ll come out of election week with a whole new DIY wardrobe.

Prepare comfort food

Allegra Kirklandour political director, went to the kitchen to calm her stress (which, given her job title, you can imagine is important). She’s made turkey chili, her mother’s arroz con pollo, and other comfort foods that she can heat up quickly when her “brains are made of Swiss cheese.”

Get out

Alyssa Hardy, Teen VogueThe style director of , puts on her running shoes to deal with election anxiety. She’ll run, head to the vintage store and look Gossip Girl as a way to calm his mind.

Revisit your favorite characters

P. Claire Dodsonsenior cultural editor, turns to classic comfort television. She also looks Gossip Girl instead of doom scrolling and playing video games to keep your brain busy.

Practice mindfulness

Skyli Alvarez, Teen Vogue editorial assistant, sets a timer every 15 to 20 minutes. When the alarm goes off, she writes down everything she observes at that moment. “(It) surprisingly helps me feel very present,” she says.

Find a mental escape

News editor Angie Jaime will look after its neglected Animal Crossing islanders to deal with election stress. Playing comforting games helps him take his mind off the anxiety-provoking reality.