Psychiatrist prescribes action and routine to counter election anxiety

The 2026 election cycle has brought a steady stream of political advertisements, texts, and news coverage to American households. The American Psychological Association reports that 69% of U.S. adults identified the 2024 presidential election as a major source of stress. Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a professor of psychiatry at Wayne State University, argues that this reaction is biologically normal. He notes that political messaging is designed to trigger the brain's threat detection system, making fear the highest priority for the mind.

Javanbakht, author of the book 'Afried: Understanding the Purpose of Fear and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety,' has observed this pattern in his clinical work. He explains that fear serves a protective function, but sustained exposure to political content can overwhelm that mechanism. Christy Warren of Flat Rock described her experience to WXYZ, saying, 'You cannot escape it. It's exhausting. It's everyday. It's multiple times a day.' This constant input can lead to feelings of dread, anger, or numbness, according to Javanbakht.

To manage these effects, Javanbakht recommends a three-step approach. The first step is to reduce exposure. He compares continuous political media consumption to eating food that causes illness. The goal is not to ignore politics entirely, but to set clear boundaries on when and how much one consumes. This prevents the initial spike in threat response from becoming a chronic condition.

The second step involves converting negative emotions into constructive action. Javanbakht advises engaging in political activism, volunteering, or charitable work. He states, 'Do something, whether it's going political activism, picking up the phone, or charitable work that helps people that I think are negatively affected by these policies.' This action counters the sense of helplessness that often accompanies high-stakes elections.

The third step is maintaining everyday routines. Javanbakht emphasizes the importance of exercise, family dinners, and shared activities. He says, 'Do your exercise, family activities, the movie you watch together, the dinner you have together. We need these normal activities that anchor us in the reality of life and keep us healthy.' These routines provide a stable counterweight to the unpredictability of the news cycle.

Javanbakht also highlights the value of social connection. He urges people to 'open up to each other and see each other's humanity beyond the politics.' Maintaining relationships across political lines helps sustain community resilience. For individuals struggling with election stress, these steps offer a practical framework to regain a sense of control without abandoning their political engagement.

The psychiatrist notes that these strategies are evidence-based and accessible. By limiting exposure, taking action, and staying connected, individuals can mitigate the psychological impact of intense campaigning. The approach focuses on practical habits rather than complex therapies, making it applicable for a wide range of voters during the current election period.