The world is indeed in a state of flux, with issues like climate change and international conflicts stirring the pot of global uncertainty. The choice of who will lead our nation seems more critical than ever.
The constant media bombardment since the announcement of the 3 May election has turned political coverage into an inescapable force, plastered across every possible surface, from billboards to the sides of buses.
While being an informed voter is a privilege and a responsibility we hold dear, the intensity of this election cycle can be downright overwhelming.
Clinical psychologist Dr Rebecca Ray confirmed that these feelings are widespread and ‘it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed or anxious in the current climate.’
‘The sheer volume of election coverage paired with uncertainty, polarising opinions, and a constant stream of global crises can make everything feel high stakes. Our nervous systems weren’t designed to hold this much information, outrage, or fear on a daily basis. Our nervous systems are struggling to cope with the relentless stream of information, polarising opinions, and global crises,’ she explained.
Indeed, research showed that election periods can significantly heighten stress levels among voters, with the heated debates and the potential impact of election outcomes on our lives contributing to this tension.
For some, this stress can manifest as ‘election stress disorder,’ a term used by mental health professionals to describe the symptoms of anxiety and overwhelm that comes with the political season.
If politics isn’t your cup of tea, you might feel out of your depth or indifferent to the myriad issues and policies being debated, which is perfectly normal.
‘Not everyone processes or engages with the world in the same way. You can still be informed in ways that feel manageable, and you can still make a difference in your immediate world, which is where your power truly lies,’ she said.
The societal pressure to always have and express an opinion can be unrealistic and overwhelming, especially when many choose to stay silent because they feel uninformed or anxious about engaging in debates.
‘In the last few years, there’s been a lot of pressure (especially online) on everyone to have, declare, and defend their opinion on everything,’ she said.
‘Such expectations are unrealistic and fail to acknowledge the fact that many people choose not to express an opinion because they feel too uninformed to do so, or feel overwhelmed or anxious at having to engage in debate.’
So, how can you maintain your well-being amidst the chaos of the 2025 election? Here are some life-changing tips to help you stay calm and centred:
1. Take control of your media consumption.
Limit your exposure to media. Decide how much news you want to absorb and stick to it. This may mean checking the headlines once a day or removing election-related content from your social media feeds.
2. Set clear boundaries.
Be clear about when and how you engage with news and political discussions. This could involve unfollowing certain topics or choosing specific times to catch up on the latest developments.
3. Embrace daily routines.
Ground yourself in daily routines that bring you back to the present moment. Activities like exercise, connecting with loved ones, getting adequate rest, and pursuing meaningful tasks can help you maintain a sense of normalcy and purpose.
Remember, as Dr Ray puts it, ‘You don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders to care about it.’
‘You can care quietly.’
Have you found a particular approach helpful? Do you have tips for fellow readers on staying informed without becoming overwhelmed? Let’s support one another through this election season. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
