Post-Election Depression? You’re Not Alone—And You Don’t Have to Face It Alone

Did the election leave you feeling emotionally worn out, maybe a little anxious, or just kind of... blah? You’re in good company. After elections, it’s completely normal to feel drained, uncertain, or downright worried. All those intense opinions, endless news cycles, and social media debates take a toll, and you might be wondering why everything feels a bit heavier right now. The truth is, an election season can really shake things up inside us—and sometimes it brings up emotions we didn’t expect.

Whether you’re happy with the outcome or not, those “What now?” or “What if?” thoughts can be tough to shake. If you’re feeling a mix of anxiety, stress, or even a touch of sadness, that’s okay. Let’s break down why this happens and how you can manage those emotions—without getting lost in the endless scroll of the latest hot takes.

Why Elections Stir Up So Much Anxiety (and Maybe Even Some Depression)

Elections are about big hopes and big concerns. No matter where you stand, the lead-up to election night and the aftermath can feel like one long emotional rollercoaster. You’re watching debates, seeing headlines fly, and reading heated posts from friends, family, or neighbors you didn’t even know had such strong opinions. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin.

Add to that the worry about what might come next, and it’s no wonder many people feel stressed, anxious, or even a bit down. Our brains tend to go into “future-predictor mode,” thinking about every possible outcome—most of which we can’t control! So, if you're feeling the election blues, it's okay. It’s normal to feel a little untethered, but there are some things you can do to feel more grounded.

Visit the Anxiety Therapy or Depression Therapy pages to learn more.

Simple Tips for Handling Post-Election Stress and Sadness

1. Hit Pause on the News Cycle
   We all want to stay informed, but let’s be real: after a while, watching the news or scrolling through social media just adds to the stress. Set some healthy boundaries—like only checking the news once a day, or logging out of certain apps for a bit. It’s amazing how much a digital breather can help.

2. Focus on Your Sphere of Influence
   It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by big, sweeping changes you can’t control. But here’s the good news: you do have control over your little corner of the world. Maybe that means volunteering locally, supporting a cause close to your heart, or just making your own daily routine a bit kinder and more peaceful. Sometimes, focusing on small, positive actions in your life helps ease the heaviness.

3. Let It Out (Yes, Seriously!)
   Bottling up emotions rarely does us any good. Find a safe way to release what you’re feeling—journal it out, talk to a friend who gets it, or even have a solo dance party in your living room if that’s your thing. Laugh, cry, vent—whatever it takes. You’ll feel lighter afterward, promise.

4. Stay Consistent with the Little Things
   When life feels chaotic, routines can help create some order. Try to keep up with the basics—get enough sleep, eat balanced meals (or at least sneak a vegetable in there), and move your body a little each day. Sometimes just having these small daily rituals can make the world feel a bit more predictable.

5. Consider Talking to a Therapist
   If your stress or sadness feels like too much to handle on your own, there’s no shame in seeking support. Therapy offers a safe, private place to unpack what you’re going through. A therapist can help you build coping strategies that actually work for you, whether it’s managing anxiety, handling stress, or simply finding a healthier way to think about the future.

6. Try a Few Grounding Exercises
   When your mind starts running wild with worry, try grounding exercises. Focus on things you can see, hear, or feel right now. It’s amazing how much a simple breathing exercise can help you stay present and feel calmer.

Remember, You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone

Election season may come and go, but the feelings it stirs up can stick around. If you’re finding it hard to manage all the emotions right now, remember that support is available. At Sara Wilper Therapy, we’re here to listen, support, and help you work through whatever life throws your way—especially the challenging times.

If you’re in Missouri, Kansas, or Arizona and need someone to talk to, I’d be honored to be part of your journey. Therapy can give you the tools to feel grounded, find balance, and feel a bit more hopeful about the future. Ready to take that first step? Reach out at sarawilpertherapy.com. You’re not alone in this—and together, we can help you find your way forward.