Election Stress: Staying Informed Without Staying Upset

Election coverage can be distracting and distressing, and coverage is ramping up right now. Media companies’ competition for your attention ensures lots of triggering commentary and stories that can increase anxiety, irritability, and dissention among family and friends. Awareness and deciding you won’t be victimized by it can keep you from being overtaken by it all.

Here are some time-tested tips on political media triggering:

1) Choose a set time to check in and get any updated news.

2) Choose reliable news sources.

3) Switch to print- or text-only news so you reduce the emotional messaging mixed with news.

4) Put up digital roadblocks by using content filters and app settings to scrub election noise completely out of your feeds and off your devices.

5) Notice physical signs that you have reached your limit, such as muscle tension, rapid breathing, or difficulty concentrating.

Take a walk, contact someone supportive, or focus on an activity you can control. You do not need to absorb every opinion to participate responsibly. If election stress begins disrupting sleep, relationships, or job performance, consider confidential assistance from your EAP.

Global Administrator | 11/5/2026