Experiencing Post Election Traumatic Stress?

You are not alone!

Post Election Traumatic Stress (PETS) compares to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), but since it is pervasive and a normal response rather than a “disorder” I leave the D off. One could debate if it is comparable to PTSD as one of the key components of PTSD is life-threatening stress — either for yourself or for someone you witness. With so much at stake in this election (democracy, climate change, systemic racism, health care, the government response to the Coronavirus, women’s rights to choices about their bodies, preserving wilderness, gun laws, the judicial system, and more) we can argue that the stress IS potentially life threatening.

Symptoms:

Difficulty concentrating

Checking the news on your TV or phone repeatedly for updates and info

Holding your breath

Expecting the worst

Forgetfulness

Despair

Hopelessness

Shock and disbelief at the number of people who have voted for the current regime

Thoughts of moving or seceding from the United States

Physical symptoms such as a pit in your stomach, grinding your teeth, or overall tension