TAMPA, Fla. — Now that election results are in, processing the emotions that come with those returns can be just as personal as the reasons behind the political choices people made.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Katie Planchard, who serves as clinic director at Ellie Mental Health in St. Petersburg, says processing those results best starts with identifying what exactly it is you’re feeling.
“Let ourselves sit in those emotions, really process what we’re feeling and recognize that all feelings are valid, whether that’s the side you wanted and believe in or the opposing side,” said Planchard.
The mental health expert has some suggestions for how to discuss the outcome, which can make for difficult conversations with family and friends. Planchard encourages establishing boundaries.
“Make rules. Maybe you’re not going to talk about politics at all,” said Planchard.
“If you are going to talk about it, we can all practice again things like active listening, respectful conversation, avoid the name calling, avoid sweeping generalizations. Really try to maybe understand the other side and validate that everybody’s feelings are OK right now,” said Planchard.
Respect is important, she said, whether those conversations are in-person or online.
“If it makes you feel better processing and giving responses on social media on either side, than that can be a way to process and handle those feelings,” said Planchard.
“But if social media feels triggering right now, it’s also OK to limit consumption.”
Planchard says to help move forward, people can focus on what is in their control. She also recommends maintaining routines, encourages self-care and making sure sleep and nutritional needs are met and reminds people to lean on their support systems.
Meanwhile, Ellie Mental Health is providing free hurricane disaster relief support groups every Monday in November. Sessions focus on compounded grief and coping mechanisms.
Anyone who needs support post-election is invited to attend.
The dates are November 11,18, 15 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Click here to learn more.