Navigating Stress and Anxiety After Election Results

Navigating Stress and Anxiety After Election Results 

It's been a few weeks since the results of the 2024 election have become final, and many of us are still in a state of shock and confusion. Something interesting happened in my office after the results were finalized- we had a huge influx of people wanting to get their medical marijuana licenses. My staff and I wondered if it was because everyone was waiting to see if Florida's recreational ballot measure passed or if it was because everyone was stressed out. I decided to do a little research on it. 

Election cycles are often associated with stress and anxiety, but research shows that political and social issues disproportionately impact minorities, especially African American women. Given the stakes in the 2024 election, which included high-profile ballot measures on reproductive rights and marijuana legalization in Florida, the emotional and psychological effects are even more significant for groups historically affected by policy and social justice issues. Like the old saying goes, when one group of people get a cold, another group gets the flu (IYKYK). Let's enter the cipher…

The Unique Impact of Election-Related Stress on African American Women

An interesting tidbit of information that I discovered was that African American women are affected by election-related stress at particularly high levels. In recent studies, Sisters reported more stress linked to politics, with an APA survey revealing that 71% of African American adults cited the 2020 election as a significant stressor, with similar numbers anticipated in 2024. Their demographic often faces higher stakes due to the interconnected issues of racial discrimination, healthcare access, economic inequality, and justice reform—all of which can feel intensely personal.

Issues such as reproductive rights are especially impactful. In the 2024 election, Florida voters rejected a reproductive rights measure, reinforcing healthcare barriers that disproportionately affect African American women. Black women experience maternal mortality rates that are three times higher than those of white women in the U.S., according to the CDC, making healthcare access a critical concern. Policy outcomes like these compound stress and feelings of disenfranchisement, as personal rights and wellbeing feel directly threatened by political outcomes

The effect on people's paper (economic anxiety) also adds to the stress experienced by African American women. Sisters earn, on average, 63 cents for every dollar earned by non-Hispanic white men, contributing to economic stress during uncertain political climates. The ongoing economic disparities mean that election results related to economic policy, healthcare reform, and social services disproportionately affect African American women, compounding their financial concerns with each election cycle. 

Pearls:

• African American women face unique stressors due to the intersection of racial and gender disparities, especially during elections with impactful ballot measures.

• Increased risks in healthcare, financial inequality, and social justice issues amplify the stakes, heightening election-related anxiety for African American women.

Traditional Treatments for Election-Related Anxiety

Traditional treatments for election-related anxiety, such as therapy and medication, can be helpful for African American women. However, access barriers persist, as only 25% of African Americans in the U.S. seek mental health care, often due to stigma, limited availability of culturally competent providers, and financial constraints. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one effective option for managing election-related stress, helping individuals shift anxious thoughts toward healthier perspectives. For African American women, connecting with culturally sensitive therapists can improve treatment outcomes, allowing for a more personalized and supportive approach to mental health.

Pearls:

• African American women often face barriers to mental health services, highlighting the importance of culturally competent care in therapy.

• Traditional treatments like CBT can help manage election stress but must be accessible and inclusive for greater effectiveness.

Holistic Treatments: Managing Election-Related Stress Naturally

Many Americans find relief from stress through holistic practices that do not require prescription medication. Meditation, yoga, and community support groups are popular options for reducing anxiety and grounding oneself during stressful times. African American women often turn to spiritual practices for support, and involvement in faith-based communities can provide a sense of resilience, comfort, and shared experience that helps to buffer against political stressors.

Exercise, which is proven to reduce stress hormones, can also be a natural and accessible form of stress relief. According to studies, regular physical activity has mental health benefits, particularly for those facing compounded social and economic stressors. Community groups or family networks that support exercise routines can also strengthen connections and provide collective stress relief.

Pearls:

• Faith and spirituality are important support systems for many African American women, offering community and resilience during times of stress. 

• Physical activity can reduce stress naturally, making it a valuable, accessible tool for managing election-related anxiety.

The Role of Cannabis and CBD: Potential Benefits and Routes of Administration

For some, cannabis and CBD offer potential relief from stress and anxiety, with CBD providing calming effects without the intoxicating impact of THC. In Florida, however, the failed 2024 marijuana legalization measure underscored the limited access to this resource for managing mental health symptoms. This ballot defeat may feel especially significant to African American women, who may already face higher hurdles in accessing traditional mental health care and often seek alternative approaches.

Various routes of administration for CBD, such as oils, gummies, and topical applications, offer flexible options for symptom relief. Oils and tinctures provide sustained effects, while inhaling offers more immediate but shorter-lived relief. Edibles and capsules are popular for their longer-lasting, milder effects. Despite access issues, cannabis remains a promising option for managing election-related anxiety, as studies suggest CBD’s potential to reduce anxiety symptoms by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system .

Pearls: 

• CBD is a non-intoxicating option for managing stress symptoms, appealing to those seeking a calming effect without psychoactivity.

• Despite potential benefits, the legal hurdles surrounding cannabis disproportionately impact minorities, as seen in Florida’s 2024 failed legalization measure.

Disconnecting from Television and Social Media

Given the elevated stress linked to constant media exposure, African American women may benefit from establishing boundaries around news and social media use. Studies have shown that taking breaks from social media, which can be a source of misinformation and contentious debates, reduces stress and anxiety. African American women often use social media to stay connected with communities and access support networks, but the constant flow of divisive content and political commentary can have negative impacts on mental health. Limiting screen time, choosing verified news sources, and designating certain times of day as “media-free” can help manage stress while staying informed.

Pearls:

• Taking breaks from social media can alleviate stress, especially when election-related content becomes overwhelming.

• Designating “media-free” periods can reduce anxiety, helping individuals to manage stress more effectively during high-stakes times.

Rolling It All Up

Most people, including pundits and experts did not expect what happened election night to happen.The 2024 election highlighted the unique stressors facing people across all demographics in America, especially African American women. Issues like reproductive rights, economic justice, and marijuana legalization affecting sisters personally and disproportionately. If you’re feeling a bit uneasy, I want you to understand that it’s “normal”. Election stress deeply impacts mental health, but strategies like seeking culturally sensitive therapy, engaging in community support, and disconnecting from constant media (social and legacy) can help manage these emotions. As we move forward to 2025, it’s essential to promote mental health awareness and ensure that all people, especially minority women, have access to the resources they need to cope with political stress.

As always, if you're interested in learning more, check out our knowledge section here or better yet- contact us with your questions. We’re happy to hear from you! Before trying CBD or medical marijuana always consult with a healthcare provider first. And of course, if you want to purchase any products, the ones I’ve created and recommend can be found here. Take a deep breath and get ready for 2025!

Pearls:

• Black women face heightened election stress due to compounded social and economic pressures, with lasting impacts on mental health.

• Coping strategies like limiting media exposure and exploring alternative treatments like CBD can be effective tools for managing stress.