Given the grief, anger, and fear we have been hearing from so many in the last week, we wanted to take some time to hold a sacred space for the darkness while also remembering the light that never left. If you find yourself struggling to find firm ground to stand on in this election season, keep reading about how to cope with election existential crisis.
And know, you are not alone.
When the earth shifts beneath our feet, when the future of our home hangs in the balance, it’s natural to feel unsettled, anxious, even lost. Whether your chosen path to progress prevailed or fell short, the high-stakes intensity of an election can shake the very foundations of how we see ourselves and our place in this world.
It’s in these profound moments of uncertainty that existential questions can come flooding in. Who am I, really? What is the meaning of my life? Is there any hope for a better tomorrow? These are weighty queries that can leave us feeling profoundly adrift.
But know this: you are not alone in your struggle. Existential crises are a common, even expected, response to the upheaval of a major political event. The good news is, there are healthy ways to work through this storm and find your footing once more.
First and foremost, it’s crucial that you acknowledge and honor the validity of your emotions. Feelings like fear, anger, grief, and hopelessness are all normal reactions to the uncertainty you’re facing. Don’t try to fight them or push them down – that will only prolong your suffering.
Instead, take the time to sit with those emotions. Journal about them, talk to trusted friends and loved ones, or even consider speaking to a therapist. Naming and processing what you’re feeling is the first step towards moving forward in a healthy way.
As you do this inner work, it’s also important to focus on what you can control in your everyday life. When the political landscape feels so unpredictable and out of our hands, it’s natural to feel powerless. But remember, there are still many aspects of your life that are within your sphere of influence.
What daily routines, hobbies, or self-care practices can you lean into for a sense of stability and purpose? What small actions can you take to support the causes or communities that matter most to you? Recognizing our individual agency, even in the midst of big, scary changes, can help restore a feeling of meaning and resilience.
At the same time, don’t underestimate the power of community and connection during these tumultuous times. Existential crises often stem from a deep sense of isolation – the feeling that we’re the only ones grappling with these heavy questions. But reaching out to our support systems can be a lifeline.
Make an extra effort to spend quality time with loved ones, whether that’s in-person or virtually. Share your struggles openly and you may find that others are weathering similar storms. Getting involved in activist movements, volunteering, or discussion groups can also remind you that you’re not alone in your values and concerns.
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of an existential crisis is the sense that all is lost – that the future is irrevocably bleak and hopeless. But it’s important to maintain a broader historical perspective. Change, for better or worse, is an inevitable part of the human experience. And throughout history, people have found ways not just to survive, but to create meaning, community, and progress even in the darkest of times.
This doesn’t mean you have to feel optimistic all the time. Grief, anger, and fear are all valid responses that deserve to be honored. But counterbalancing those emotions with reminders of our resilience, our interconnectedness, and the ever-present possibility of a brighter tomorrow can help restore a sense of hope.
Finally, don’t forget the basics of self-care. When we’re feeling existentially shaken, it’s easy to neglect our physical and mental wellbeing. But practices like getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and making time for exercise can actually help ground us and boost our ability to cope. As for me, I’ve found myself turning to nature more to soothe the intensity of this time and remember the support of the earth beneath my feet.
So engage in activities that soothe your spirit, whether that’s creative expression, time in nature, or spiritual/religious practice. Limit your exposure to news and social media if it’s causing you more distress than clarity. And don’t be afraid to reach out for professional support, whether from a therapist, counselor, or support group.
The road through an existential crisis is rarely straight or easy. But by acknowledging your feelings, focusing on what you can control, connecting with others, maintaining hope, and caring for yourself, you can find your footing and even grow from this challenging experience. After all, it’s in our darkest moments that we often discover the full depth of our strength and resilience.
With you through it all,
Your Soul In Motion Team
Relevant Past Blogs
Nature as Medicine: Unlocking the Benefits of Nature Therapy
Healing Trauma: A Gentle Approach Through Somatic Experiencing
The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Trauma: Why Facing Our Pain Matters
Reach Out
If you’d like to reach out to us, you are welcome to contact us here.
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