The Big Election and Your Mental Health

Ugh. Another big election, and it isn ' t pretty. Or comforting.Democratic and Republican nominees bombard us with negative campaigns, fear-based rhetoric and constant press conferences. Nominee ' s speeches are generally scripted to persuade and influence - and are often peppered with an underlying message of danger... and that the only answer to ease your worry is to vote for them.Other political groups find ways to shake up the electoral process by leaking videos or launching negative stories for their own interests. And then there ' s the news, broadcast television, social media and internet websites that perpetuate the negative campaigning atmosphere by telling sensational stories, challenging the opinion of others or poking at issues that challenge us as a country:unemployment, immigration, money, health, education. Before long, the general public splinters into polarizing groups. The negativity keeps rolling on and on - andresearch tells us that it not going to get any better anytime soon. You see,emotions win elections. Though positive campaigning can heighten your feelings on enthusiasm and hope, it ' s fear, anger and anxiety that gets you in the voting booth. You ' re more likely to make sure to get out and vote if you worry that you ' ll lose things in election times.Why It ' s StressfulThe reason the general public ' s mental health is challenged is because negative campaigning heightens stress. And when your body is faced with stress, particularly...

Source: Dr. Deborah Serani - October 17, 2016 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Tags: anxiety depression mental health neuroscience well-being Source Type: blogs