From the Counselling Suite

Post Election Reactions

The lead up to the election can bring with it a sense of collective purpose, community and excitement.  It prompts many of us to think about our values, human rights, social justice, the environment, our futures and perhaps most importantly, the futures of our children, and to bond with those with similar values. 

We are often so caught up in our busy day to day lives that we neglect to think about these important issues at other times, especially if they do not directly impact on us every day.  Now that the election has been and gone, some may be feeling happy with the outcome, some are indifferent, and others may be left feeling disconnected, sad, disillusioned, frustrated, anxious or even helpless. 

If you are experiencing a negative response to the election, here are some things you can do:

• Acknowledge how you are feeling.  Research indicates that when you name an experience, you can reduce its intensity. Give yourself space to be sad, then start to reconnect with your life.  Whilst lying low for a day or two is OK, neglecting other commitments like work, school or socialising, will only make you feel worse for longer.  Try to get back in to your routines as soon as possible.  This includes making sure you’re getting enough sleep, that you’re eating well and exercising.
• Do what helps you to relax.  This could involve listening to music or spending some time outdoors.  When we feel bad, these are often the first things we stop doing, which can trigger a downward spiral. 
• Try not to project too far in to the future and think about the worst possible outcomes, of doom and gloom.  There is no point wasting grief and worry on things that have not happened yet. 
• Instead, reflect on your values and how much you’re doing in your everyday life to promote the things you care about.  Consider how you could incorporate your values in to your life some more and become a greater advocate for the things you care about.  For example, you might think about making donations or volunteering at a charity or non-government organisation that supports a cause you believe in.  As well as assisting others, taking proactive steps to assist with causes that are important to us can provide us with a sense of purpose and agency, and counteracts feelings of helplessness.
• Educate yourself about issues that are important to you.  Read, read, read and don’t forget to be mindful of your sources of information.  Be more aware of your media consumption and the potential for bias in different forms of media.     
• Spend time with friends and like-minded people who can understand and validate your experience.  Some of us may need some alone time to recharge but make sure you do not isolate yourself as misery thrives in isolation.
• Sometimes, our political views may feel like part of our identities, so when the parties or members we have voted for lose, it can feel like a personal rejection.  Remember that this is not a reflection on you or your beliefs.
• Encourage your children to take an interest in important issues, to be critical thinkers and to be socially and environmentally aware. 

If you are interested in accessing counselling support for your child, please complete the counselling referral form on SEQTA and send it to counselling@bps.sa.edu.au   

Dr Lucinda Clifford

PSYCHOLOGIST