Wisconsinites cope with election fatigue as November 5th comes closer

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – With the election just mere weeks away it can feel like some of us are running on empty.
Campaigns realize things are getting down to the wire, but all the ads and talking points can take a toll on our mental health.
“I know in my work, I hear about fear and stress from many people. And, I’m just one therapist,” said Annie Allen. She is the clinic director at Nystrom & Associates Eau Claire.
She said the harsh rhetoric that can be heard on commentary shows or political ads and so on is harmful to the mind.
All of that content is hard to escape when it can be seen on numerous media platforms like television and the web. Not to mention, all those political signs that can be found on the front yard of numerous homes.
“All of the ads. Whether you are on Facebook, Youtube, TikTok, everything like that. The ads can just be overwhelming,” said CJ Flom.
He, like many Wisconsin voters, knows his vote holds weight.
Wisconsin is key to both major political parties’ run for power. The Badger State is a swing state that can decide who will make it to the White House, Congress and the Senate.
“I think it’s really the most important election,” said Patricia Stockwell.
All this in mind, what can we do to help our mental wellbeing?
Allen said practicing mindfulness is a start.
“Having the TV on all day. Checking it off and on throughout the day. Usually there isn’t that much new information,” said Allen. “Find something. Plan a time. I’m going to look at some things for 30 minutes. And then I’m going to go engage in life.”
Flom and Stockwell agree and say they try what they can to help their own mental health.
“Most of the time I would just turn it off for a little bit and do something else. Turn my brain off. Do dishes. Do chores,” said Flom.
“That why I’m on this beautiful walk. Meditate. Pray. Take walks into nature. That’s what you need to do,” said Stockwell.
“It’ll be over soon,” said Flom.
Allen also adds to remember to be kind to each other.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library also released some tips on how to practice self care when dealing with election fatigue.
Copyright 2024 WEAU. All rights reserved.