But in other ways, it feels very different the second time around.
Keep in mind that if youre mourning the outcome of the election, youre not alone.
In fact, theres an even more specific term for what were going through.
Kamala Harris supporters at Howard University on Tuesday night.ANGELA WEISS/AFP/.Getty Images
When one struggles with a particular ideology held by those in political power, there is grief.
Its impact can be personal and painful.
We must acknowledge this as grief, saysDion Metzger, MD, a psychiatrist practicing in Atlanta.
Grief and fear are two very strong emotions to have at once.
Theres also a component of sadness.
A lot of people are confused by the heaviness that theyre feeling, Metzger says.
Here are some tips and strategies from mental health professionals to help you function.
There is no timeline on grief.
Crying can contribute to relief in some way and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
Everyone talks about fight or flight thats the sympathetic nervous system, Martin explains.
Nows a good time to let it go.
A lot of times we dont realize how much tension were holding in our body, Martin says.
Its something you’re able to do anywhere on your own in five minutes.
Or, if youd prefer having some guidance,Martin has a videowalking you through the exercise.
Experiencing grief and disappointment doesnt make you powerless, Martin stresses.
Community is really essential in these moments, and theres so much power in mobilizing, she says.
Another tangible way to get involved would be to host a skill sharing workshop.
These platforms can only intensify these scary emotions following an election.
Instead, she recommends focusing on comfort and self-care for the next week.
But if not, use your feet.
Dont engage with them, because it is about self-preservation.
Its in your control not to spend time with them or engage with them in a certain way.
This is especially important for people of color and other members of marginalized populations.
Its only going to be worse.
A lot of Black people and people of historically excluded groups are walking around with PTSD.
Pay attention to the emotional residue within your body after hanging out with someone, she says.
If you feel sucky, take a stab at figure out a way to decrease that.
Also, still have faith in the fact that everyone and everything is not evil.
Putting some distance between yourself and someone problematic is crucial for your own well-being.
Decide when disengagement is actually a self-care mechanism and employ your right to say enough for the time being.
Boundaries are also vital as we navigate sadness, Metzger says.
We are already emotionally exhausted so our capabilities for others are lessened, she explained.
And then I also say, So, what do you want to do next?
So, get angry, then get to work.
You have every right to be pissed off, but what are you going to do with it?
it’s possible for you to tell somebody to fuck off while also donating to a therapy phone line.
you’re able to angrily crochet hats for unhoused populations.
Anger does more than people acknowledge.
