CHARLOTTE, NC — The upcoming election has a lot of people feeling stressed, anxious, and even scared. If you’re one of the 60% of Americans who say the election is having a noticeable impact on your mental health, you’re not alone. Social media plays a big role, with the constant stream of news, opinions, and arguments adding to the tension. Here are a few things you can do to protect your mental health during this time: ● Filter your social media: You don’t have to unfriend people, but you can temporarily snooze or unfollow those whose posts trigger strong emotions. ● Turn off notifications: Silence the constant alerts from social media platforms like X and Facebook. You can always turn them back on later. ● Be mindful of reactions: Did you know that reacting to posts with anger or other strong emotions can actually lead to seeing more of the same content? It’s part of how algorithms work. ● Take a break: If it’s all too much, consider stepping away from social media entirely until the election is over. ● Connect in person: Psychologists say that face-to-face interactions can be a good antidote to the negativity of social media. If you can’t completely avoid election coverage, try downloading a relaxation app like Calm, Happier, or Mindfulness. These apps offer short meditations and breathing exercises to help you de-stress. Another option is a coloring app like April Coloring, which can provide a calming distraction. Remember, it’s okay to take a break from the news and social media. Your mental health is important. By taking a few simple steps, you can reduce your stress and anxiety and get through this election season with your sanity intact.