Post-Election Anxiety and Rage: Navigating the Aftermath in Twin Cities, Minnesota

The election has come and gone, but for many residents of the Twin Cities, the emotional rollercoaster is far from over and the holidays are upon us.

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Family functions and differing political views are likely to find a place at the holiday table, boosting the emotional tone and overall fatigue. Post-election anxiety is a common experience, however this year it's more than anxiety. It’s all consuming rage and mounting panic for many. Whether you’re processing disappointment, anger, numbness or uncertainty about what’s ahead, managing your emotional well-being is essential.

Here are some ways to cope with post-election anxiety and rage and foster a sense of balance in your life:

1. Give Your Feelings a Place at the Table

It is perfectly normal to have a slurry of emotions after an election, especially this one. You might be feeling frustration, disbelief, worry, anger, rage, panic or even numbness. Psychiatrist Dr. Dan Siegel coined the phrase “name it to tame it” when considering your emotions. Take time to name and validate what you’re experiencing without judgment. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to managing them. Engaging with your emotions in trusted relationships can prove to be calming, affirming, and connecting. If you typically journal your feelings, take the next step in sharing your emotional landscape with someone who is able to maintain a differentiated and supported stance in your life. 

2. Demote The News And Social Media From The Table

Are you noticing your nervous system has had enough? The news and social media often remains intense around post election outcomes. Find your balance of staying informed while maintaining your slice of peace. Set boundaries around what time of day, what news sources, or social influences you open your ear to. Consider the timing of taking in new information. Constant exposure or being inundated just before a big meeting at work or prior to bedtime can wreak havoc on your state of well being. Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries! 

3. Zoom In On What You Can Control

Are you feeling out of control since the election results came rolling in? You aren’t alone. The Twin Cities have been reeling since November 6th, 2024. Refocusing on areas where you can make an impact—volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or advocating for causes you believe in—can help you feel empowered and grounded. By refocusing on what you can control, you shift your nervous system into a state of connection and ease. These actions remind you of your agency and resilience in an ever changing, uncertain time. Having the chance to impact your surroundings, your community, and those you love or are soon to meet brings a greater mindful presence and overall satisfaction. Banding together is needed more than ever. Find your lane and operate in it fiercely.

4. Reconnect With Your Community

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The Twin Cities are home to many community organizations, cultural events, and support networks. Engaging with these resources can remind you of the collective efforts happening locally and help rebuild a sense of connection after a divisive season. Volunteering with groups like Second Harvest Heartland or Habitat for Humanity Twin Cities can make all the difference. Giving of your time and resources is an active way to contribute and make a difference in a time of deep uncertainty. Getting involved with Courageous Conversations or Better Angels can promote deep thinking and empathy building to boost connection amongst even the most polarizing viewpoints. Although this is not an exhaustive list, these are simply ideas to get you thinking of how to get involved. 

5. Set A Place For Practicing Self-Care

Times like these call for boosting your self-care routines. Below freezing temps are sure to keep you indoors, however now is the time to defy the odds, throw on a handful of layers and get yourself outdoors. The Twin Cities has many parks and outdoor opportunities. Lake Bde Maka Ska, Minnehaha Regional Park, Crosby Farms, Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, and Fort Snelling Regional Park are a few places that won’t disappoint.

Amongst the freezing cold you’ll likely see some wild life or have a moment of peace and quiet, just the crunch beneath your feet and the sound of your steamy breath. If you are hard pressed to get outdoors, creating a space indoors with the spirit of hygge – cozy, warm and reveling in the simple pleasures – is sure to give you a little inner peace. Whether it’s spending time outdoors in one of the many parks in the Twin Cities, getting to a yoga class or a sauna, or connecting with loved ones, prioritize activities that nourish your mental health. 

6. Loop In Professional Support 

If your experience post-election is lonely, overwhelming or persistent, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Providers like the team at Sage Leaf Wellness can offer support tailored to your needs.

Moving Forward Together

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While elections can often feel polarizing, the aftermath offers an opportunity to rebuild and focus on shared goals. For residents of Minneapolis and St. Paul, this might mean prioritizing community engagement and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing the region. By staying connected and proactive, you can channel post-election emotions into meaningful actions that benefit you and your neighbors.

Start Working With an Anxiety Therapist in Saint Paul, MN

Above all, remember that you’re not alone in navigating these feelings. Together, the Twin Cities community can move forward, finding strength in its resilience and diversity. Our team of caring therapists is happy to offer support with coping with anxiety from our ST. Paul-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:

  1. Contact us today.

  2. Meet with a caring therapist

  3. Start moving forward this holiday season!

Other Healing Services at Sage Leaf Wellness

At Sage Leaf Wellness, we are committed to helping you heal. In addition to anxiety therapy, we use many other theories and methods. The team at SLW is passionate about finding the right fit to gain the best outcome for your healing. Our services include EMDR Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Marriage and Couples Counseling, and more. Hop over to our scheduling link to set up a free consultation or appointment today!

Benjamin Kelley