It’s no surprise that talking about politics can cause some angst. What might be surprising, though, is that it can actually harm your health.
Politics impact our daily lives, and most of us also consume political content every day, with discussions in the workplace, at home, and online. During campaigns and debates especially, mixed emotions are expected, but there is growing evidence that links intense election periods and divisive politics with the worsening health of the population.
The term “post-election stress disorder,” which started circulating after the 2016 presidential race in the United States, describes common experiences of mental, emotional, and physical discomfort after a critical election. Symptoms include headaches, insomnia, and feelings of stress and despair, among others. That same year, two studies found that increases in cardiac arrhythmias and blood pressure among racial minorities were also associated with the election.
While not an official diagnosis, post-election stress is here to stay. In 2017, Americans reported that exposure to political content had widespread negative impacts on their social, mental, and physical health, according to a study published in the Public Library of Science. Lost sleep, broken friendships, and emotional discomfort were some of the most common experiences.
Then in 2019, with the 2020 presidential election underway, an American Psychological Association survey found that 56% of US adults reported the election to be a significant source of stress. Changes to physical and mental health were often noted, including heightened anxiety, depression, and headaches. Election-related symptoms often gradually increase as campaigns begin and, as anticipation grows and media coverage picks up, can last until voting time.
Polarization in US politics may be driving these health consequences. Conflict and dissent between political parties is intense and growing, even leading to increases in post-traumatic stress disorder for people, regardless of the winning candidate’s party affiliation.
And this is not unique to US politics. For instance, one 2023 study looking at contentious elections in Taiwan found significant increases in the use of health care during campaign seasons, particularly for treatment of acute respiratory infections and gastrointestinal conditions.
More research is needed to determine whether it is divisive elections primarily that create these health burdens or if we’re at a point when day-to-day political engagement is adversely affecting population health. Regardless, the connection is concerning, especially since research suggests that poor health reduces the likelihood of voter participation.
With the 2024 presidential election cycle in full swing in the US, here are some ways to manage how the political climate impacts your well-being.
Limit Media Consumption
Spending less time online can improve mental health and minimize a hyper-fixation on politics. Political content on social media increases more during election years, and news feeds that filter out the viewpoints of those we disagree with politically, a.k.a. filter bubbles, further aggravate the political divide. Taking a break from the news provides an opportunity to mentally decompress.
Set Boundaries
Limit political discussions to settings where they are appropriate — and where you can step away, if needed. This sets protective boundaries for you and others. For example, it might be more difficult to disengage from political discussions in the workplace than if you are in a friend’s home; knowing when and how to walk away is key.
Establish Policy
Organizations can create policies to limit sensitive discussions in the workplace and can learn how to address political conflicts if they arise. For instance, the Hatch Act prohibits some federal employees from participating in certain political activities to minimize the influence of political ideologies in the workplace.
Get Involved
It may seem counterintuitive, but actually engaging in the issues that matter to you can help your mental health. As youth climate organizers have previously told Teen Vogue, finding a community and likeminded people can aid in processing stressful emotions and challenging political topics. As a social determinant of health, civic participation can reduce stress, promote empathy and resilience, while also providing a sense of meaning in your life.
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