Mental health experts warn of ‘political anxiety’ as election campaign nears end
Posted Apr 25, 2025 03:33:24 PM.
Last Updated Apr 25, 2025 03:33:30 PM.
As the federal election campaign nears its conclusion, some might be feeling overwhelmed by the rhetoric and divisive nature of this particular election.
Mental health experts call it political anxiety, and it is a very real thing, but it is also manageable.
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is out with a list of symptoms to look for and ways to manage political anxiety. CEO, CMHA Waterloo Region, Helen Fishburn, told 570 NewsRadio, those feeling election stress, there is one important first step.
“Generally speaking it’s important to manage how much media exposure you have. If you have a cable news network on 24/7 and you’re just bombarding yourself with negative messages, that certainly doesn’t help. So, set some boundaries around your news consumption.”
Fishburn says it’s not just news junkies that can be affected by political anxiety.
“Even for people who are generally very grounded, you know, kind of take life as it comes, it just feels like the last few years have been incredibly challenging to navigate. So, it’s important to recognize that. It’s important to understand that that impacts everybody, no matter what your age is, no matter what your stage in life.”
CMHA lists some of the symptoms of political anxiety as:
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Intrusive or obsessive thoughts
- Emotional eating or substance use
- Distancing from friends and family with opposing views
- In extreme cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Thankfully, as Fishburn said, political anxiety can be managed through self-care.
“Make sure we are taking care of ourselves. How can we recharge our batteries? How can we reset? So, those are things like going out for some walks, making sure we’re getting some fresh air. Taking care of ourselves in ways that support our needs.”
She says if the feelings start to be too much, it’s important to reach out for help.
CMHA offers a program called My Path. It’s a free, inclusive mental wellness program that does not require referral or diagnosis.
CMHA also operates a hotline called Here 24/7 where confidential help is available over the phone at 1-844-437-3247.
