In a world that often feels overwhelming, many people experience anxiety. This emotional response can affect various parts of life, from daily activities to relationships. It’s crucial to understand the root causes and seek ways to manage it effectively.
Anxiety can stem from multiple factors including genetics, brain chemistry, personality traits, and life experiences. Understanding these influences is the first step toward addressing anxiety. Individuals may find relief through techniques like mindfulness meditation or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), both of which have proven beneficial for managing symptoms.
Additionally, physical health plays a significant role in mental well-being. Regular exercise and maintaining a nutritious diet can enhance mood and reduce feelings of stress. Connecting with others—whether friends or support groups—can also provide comfort and understanding during difficult times.
It’s essential for anyone struggling with anxiety to recognize they are not alone—and help is available. Seeking guidance from professionals can be an important step towards reclaiming control over anxious feelings.
With Election Day approaching, the atmosphere is charged with a mix of hope, fear, and anxiety among voters for both Trump and Harris. Recent events have heightened tensions, including two attempted assassinations and a surprising change in candidates just before the election. Additionally, ongoing international conflicts continue to add to the uncertainty surrounding this pivotal moment in American politics.
Middle East tensions. Border disputes. Grim forecasts of authoritarianism and threats against those involved in elections. All of this is compounded by an economy that most people feel is struggling, even with record highs in the stock market, low unemployment rates, and increasing wages.
This presidential race has turned out to be incredibly unpredictable, leading to a heightened atmosphere of stress, anxiety, and fear. This situation has been intensified by sensationalist television commentary, viral social media content, unexpected moments in debates, and endorsements from celebrities.
YSL News spoke with numerous individuals regarding these developments.
As the country approaches a critical election, voters nationwide are expressing their anxieties about the choice between former President Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, and Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate.
“People are feeling tense every day leading up to Election Day,” remarked 64-year-old Laura Henderson from Arkansas, who supports Trump.
In various states:
— In Georgia, 49-year-old landscaper Graham Stewart is concerned that another term for Trump could pose challenges for his transgender family members.
— In Michigan, Emily Gregory, 42, is worried that her eldest daughter might struggle to find employment if Harris is successful in the election, even though supporting Trump could mean losing access to abortion services.
— In Raleigh, North Carolina, Claude Allen, 58, is contemplating carrying a firearm for safety in case Trump does not concede again.
— Meanwhile, in California, Joyce Lucich, 76, is simply maintaining a cautious outlook.
She’s planning to support Trump. Although she and her husband have some concerns regarding his stance on Ukraine and Gaza, as well as his behavior in general, she believes that the economy is far too critical to risk another four years of liberal policies.
“People are constantly anxious and stressed,” stated Dr. Arash Javanbakht, who is the founding director of the S
At Wayne State University’s School of Medicine in Detroit, the Tress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic is addressing a growing concern. “Politicians keep claiming this is the most frightening time you’ve ever experienced,” noted Dr. Javanbakht.
Dr. Javanbakht, who wrote “AFRAID: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety,” specializes in treating anxiety disorders. He has observed a significant rise in individuals seeking assistance as election campaigns heat up.
This trend is understandable.
Trump often depicts a bleak vision for America’s future, insisting that he alone can rescue the nation from disaster.
His backers express that they feel overwhelmed by rising expenses.
Supporters of Trump believe he is the economic leader needed at this time. Frustrated by the significant number of migrants in recent years, they view his commitment to deport individuals living in the U.S. illegally as an essential measure to safeguard America’s unique qualities.
They also point to his initiatives aimed at restricting abortion access and significantly reducing federal spending through government downsizing. Additionally, they emphasize his push for increased oil and gas drilling to lower energy prices, along with promises of further tax reductions.
And they endorse his initiatives to impose high tariffs on China and his strategy of “peace through strength” for national defense and NATO.
“We’re currently in such a dire situation that I believe he is the person who can lead us out of it for the sake of my children and grandchildren,” stated Jennifer Wilson, 47, a voter from Arkansas and supporter of Trump.
Supporters on the left view the possibility of another Trump presidency as a danger to democracy, especially following the insurrection by his supporters at the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to disrupt the certification process.
After Biden’s victory in 2020, many find it hard to comprehend how someone could support a convicted felon or a person they believe has shown disrespect towards women.
There is concern about his intentions to forcibly deport millions of undocumented immigrants living in the U.S., and frustration over his appointments of Supreme Court justices who have overturned the federal right to an abortion. Additionally, there are fears regarding potential restrictions on access to birth control. Many individuals express their willingness to endure higher prices for goods and services if it contributes to safeguarding the planet’s climate.
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Many believe that Harris, who is of Black and Southeast Asian descent, brings a vital sense of hope and optimism for the future, aiming to enhance protections and rights for everyone in America. The withdrawal of President Joe Biden from the race has left many feeling relieved, as it significantly changed the landscape of the election.
“Harris is incredible,” commented Sandra MacDonald, 61, from Nashville. “Forget for a moment that she’s a woman of color. She’s an intelligent and passionate candidate.”
Top voter issues include abortion and economy
The era of courteous political discourse has faded away.
Presidential debates often feature candidates complimenting their rivals; however, supporters of Trump and Harris are gearing up for a more contentious atmosphere. They are exchanging insults on social media, posting shocking video clips, and engaging in heated discussions with family members.
Many find it hard to understand why anyone would consider supporting the opposing candidate.
Kellie Love, a 44-year-old independent voter from Louisville, Kentucky, expressed her intention to vote for Harris while expressing concerns about a potential Trump presidency.
Love expressed her uncertainty about her role in the future envisioned by Trump, stating, “I don’t think I’m included in the future that he sees. I just don’t foresee him being able to say, ‘OK, I lost.’ It’s very scary to watch.”
On the other hand, James McMorrow, a 22-year-old Republican from Cape Cod who voted for Trump in 2020, reflected on how things seemed better during Trump’s presidency. He mentioned that he is currently working harder than ever to manage living expenses and believes that Trump has the potential to improve conditions.
“My pay remains unchanged while everything else becomes pricier,” McMorrow expressed. “Since he has been president before, I’m optimistic that things will turn out as positively as they did last time. That’s my perspective.”
Lucich added: “I simply cannot support another four years of the same situation we’ve experienced. Despite our personal feelings about Trump, the state of our economy and the challenges we’ve faced over the past four years make it impossible for us to endure this again. What concerns me is that many people claim they’re voting based on abortion rights, which impact a small fraction of the population. However, issues like the economy and immigration influence everyone in the United States.”
Many individuals are expected to support Harris due to her stance on abortion.
Barbara Balogh, a 51-year-old from the Cleveland area, expressed her reasoning for voting for Harris: “Her commitment to safeguarding our rights and not regressing us by a century is particularly persuasive.”
As Allen from Raleigh noted: “If someone infringes on rights…
Concerns About Violence and Rights Resonate with Many
During discussions, numerous voters expressed that they don’t feel represented by the current candidates. Some are struggling to envision a peaceful future for the nation.
Mike Miley, a 23-year-old electrician from Arizona, mentioned that while rising gas prices and immigration are significant issues for him, he is particularly anxious about the potential division within the United States and has decided to support Trump once more. He stated his belief that Trump was the true winner of the 2020 election and feels that “wealthy individuals” ultimately influence who really holds power.
Trump is merely delaying the inevitable rather than resolving the underlying issues, according to some observers. They believe that regardless of his actions, a significant event is looming.
Many supporters of Harris express concerns about Trump’s potential disregard for the Constitution. They worry he might resort to unlawful tactics against various groups, including undocumented immigrants and transgender individuals, as well as against his political opponents. The attempted insurrection on January 6, 2021, by Trump’s supporters serves as a troubling illustration of this risk.
“We’re hoping for a smooth process without any violence or negativity,” expressed Brenda Butler, 82, from Nashville, who cast her vote for Harris.
However, not all voters consider this election to be one of the most critical choices in American history.
California Democrat David Ponce, 25, mentioned he might opt out of voting: “It doesn’t really matter who you choose; things still need to get done at the end of the day. We remain as the USA.”
Nashville resident Ben McCreary, 35, expressed his desire for Americans to unite after the votes are tallied and a new president takes office. He preferred not to disclose his voting choice.
“It will be what it will be,” McCreary noted. “Ultimately, once everything is finalized, let’s move forward together and aim to steer our efforts in the same direction rather than going our separate ways.”
America Approaches a Conclusion in the 2024 Presidential Election
For those feeling drained by the election process, there’s a silver lining: the conclusion of this presidential campaign brings an end to the barrage of television and social media ads, campaign emails, and fundraising texts. This offers an opportunity to reduce anxiety by cutting back on media exposure.
Javanbakht mentioned that many patients he sees in his clinic often admit to spending several hours each day watching cable TV.
tries to reassure them that situations are often not as dire as perceived. He pointed out that while political disagreements exist, it’s crucial not to fixate on them.
He noted that most Republicans aren’t actively targeting migrants, and Democrats aren’t coercing anyone into surrendering their firearms.
“I don’t suggest being uninformed. However, it’s important to limit your exposure to negativity,” he explained. “If you consume junk food constantly, your body will react poorly. Similarly, reducing time spent on cable news can lead to improvements in well-being. I advise my clients that whenever they find themselves feeling upset or anxious, they should pause and reflect on what thoughts are troubling them.”
What are you doing to take care of yourself? Perhaps consider going for a walk.
(This article has been updated with new information.
