Election Day can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. The constant stream of breaking news, updates, opinions, and reactions floods our screens, and we’re expected to tune in as if our very survival depends on it. This year, however, I’ve made the conscious choice to step back and not watch.It’s not because I don’t care. On the contrary, I care deeply about the issues at stake, the future of our communities, and the well-being of those who will be most affected by the results. But I also care about my mental health, my ability to stay grounded, and how I navigate stressful situations without being consumed by them. Here’s why I’m choosing to avoid election day coverage this year:
The Impact on My Nervous System
Our nervous systems are designed to respond to danger and stress in the environment. When we’re constantly exposed to high-stakes, emotionally charged information—especially when it involves conflict and uncertainty—our systems can go into overdrive. Watching the endless election coverage is like putting ourselves in a state of heightened alert, triggering stress responses like anxiety, anger, or even helplessness. I’m choosing to protect my nervous system from that constant barrage because I know how quickly it can lead to feeling overwhelmed, dysregulated, and disconnected from myself.
The Illusion of Control
Election Day coverage is a constant loop of speculation, prediction, and analysis. But the truth is, once we’ve cast our votes, the process is out of our hands. Watching the coverage doesn’t give us any real control over the outcome—it only gives us the illusion that we’re staying on top of things. But that illusion comes with a cost: a toll on our emotional and mental health. By stepping back from the coverage, I’m reminding myself that I’ve done my part, and I can’t control the rest. I’d rather focus on what I can control—how I spend my time, how I care for myself, and how I prepare for whatever the outcome may be.
Prioritizing My Well-Being
I’ve learned that protecting my well-being means being mindful of what I consume—not just food and drink, but also information. Election coverage, especially in such a charged political climate, is designed to keep us hooked. It thrives on dramatic headlines, conflict, and uncertainty. But I don’t need that constant input to stay informed or to care about what happens. I can choose when and how to engage with the information in ways that don’t overwhelm or exhaust me. By avoiding the coverage, I’m permitting myself to prioritize peace, stability, and clarity over chaos.
A Clearer Head for What Comes Next
By not getting caught up in the emotional turmoil of the coverage, I’m leaving space to process what happens next with a clearer head. Whether the results align with my hopes or not, I’ll need the energy and mental clarity to take action in meaningful ways. Staying grounded through election day allows me to remain resilient and responsive rather than reactive, no matter the outcome.
So, this year, instead of watching the numbers roll in or getting caught in the emotional tide of election day updates, I’m choosing to focus on the things that help me stay balanced. Whether that means taking a walk, connecting with loved ones, or simply being still, I know that avoiding the coverage is the right choice for me. It’s about protecting my nervous system, my mental health, and my ability to show up fully for what’s ahead—whatever that may be. I hope this choice inspires others to consider what’s best for their well-being too. We can care deeply without sacrificing our own stability in the process.
