How do you feel about the election results?

Puerto Ricans, especially those who live in the US, experience these emotions doubly, because we are waiting for the results on the island and at the national level.

Election results can stir up a wide range of emotions, from excitement and relief to disappointment and anxiety. Regardless of whether your preferred candidates or policies won, it’s natural to experience intense emotions as political events unfold. Understanding and managing these feelings can make a big difference in maintaining emotional well-being. 

This experience has a very peculiar way of being lived in a collective and isolated way at the same time.

It is also difficult to maintain an emotional balance, because even if you try to disconnect and return to normality, everywhere the news, the conversations, and the expectations are focused on the results and the political future of the country.

Puerto Ricans, especially those who live in the US, experience these emotions doubly, because we are waiting for the results on the island and at the national level.

If we live in the US, we are interested in knowing what will happen to our family and friends back on the island. And if we live on the island, the two political scenarios, the local and the national, will have a direct impact on our lives.

That is why we want you to share with Floricuas how you feel. It is good to express our emotions and decompress a little.

And yes, in a few weeks we may be drinking coquito and celebrating Christmas in the best way possible, but it is completely logical to be anxious or expectant about the political scenario, because it is what will determine much of our lives in the next four years.

Here, we’ll explore some tips for coping with stress and finding balance.

Take a news break: 

If you feel too caught up in the news cycle, try to take a break from it. You can watch a movie or a series to help distract you. If you find it difficult to stay away from the news, you can set an alarm to help you control how long you consume the information.

“It’s really important to have and carve out sacred spaces throughout your day where you don’t have constant notifications,” psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma told CBS News.

Pamper yourself:

Emotional distress often takes a toll on the body as well. Make sure to prioritize sleep, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly. Physical activity, in particular, is a powerful stress reliever and can help improve your mood. Activities like walking, yoga, grounding, meditation or even a brief workout can help you regain energy and resilience.

Share your thoughts and emotions:

In the current political environment, it is easy to agree or disagree, so it may be that your close people have the same ideals as you — and if that is the case, it is fantastic, because you will be able to share thoughts and freely express your emotions.

But in the case that you and those close to you do not agree, it is better to avoid the subject, so as not to affect the relationship. Especially when Thanksgiving is around the corner. Instead, find a friend or relative who thinks like you and vent to that person.

Seek Support if Needed

If you’re finding it particularly hard to manage your emotions, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapy provides a safe space to explore your feelings and learn coping skills that can be useful not just during election season, but throughout life.

Be empathetic

Whether you’re celebrating or processing disappointment, practicing self-compassion and compassion in general is key. Also be patient with you and others. The future is shaped by both individual and collective action, so taking care of yourself now is also a step toward a more balanced, productive tomorrow. Volunteer work also can help you feel better, whether you are celebrating or disappointed. Either scenario will help you build a better community.

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