Election Results: Seeing Red or Election Blues?
It is that season again. What season you ask? Election season. This season often stir up intense emotions and causes such a divide. Whether you’re seeing red with frustration or feeling the election blues, you’re not alone. It’s normal for our emotions to surge when our values, hopes, and beliefs feel validated or threatened. Emotions such as anger, sadness, anxiety, and relief are common—and understanding these feelings can be a powerful tool for navigating post-election stress.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the emotional impact of election outcomes, provide practical guidance for managing these feelings, and turn to Scripture for comfort and perspective.
The Emotional Spectrum of Election Season
Post-election emotions vary widely and are influenced by personal experiences, beliefs, community values, and familial influence, tradition, and/or obligations. Here are some common responses:
Anger: If the election results conflict with your values or beliefs, you may feel frustrated, disillusioned, or even angry.
Sadness: For some, the results might evoke a sense of loss, sadness, or grief, especially if they feel like their vision for the future isn’t represented.
Anxiety: Uncertainties about the future can trigger worry and stress, especially when changes impact issues close to your heart.
Relief or Happiness: When the results align with one’s hopes, the reaction might be one of celebration or relief.
Whatever emotions you’re experiencing, remember they are valid and part of your personal process.
Finding Comfort in Faith and Scripture
Scripture offers a powerful source of comfort and guidance when emotions run high. God encourages us to bring our burdens to Him, trusting that He is sovereign even when we don’t fully understand His plans.
Peace Amidst Anxiety: Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Turning to prayer allows us to hand over our anxieties, trusting God to provide the peace we seek.
Managing Anger and Seeking Patience: Advice from James 1:19-20, “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” This verse calls us to pause and reflect, properly placing our energy into constructive conversations and actions rather than allowing anger consume us.
Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Reminder from Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” We may not understand the current outcomes, but we can trust in God’s plan…point, blank, and period…
Psychoeducation on Managing Election-Related Emotions
Understanding your emotional responses is an essential step toward managing them in a more healthy manner. Here are some strategies to consider:
Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings: Suppressing emotions often leads to increased stress. Allow yourself to feel and name your emotions without judgment. “I’m feeling frustrated because…” or “I’m experiencing sadness because…” can open doors for self-compassion.Also, think realistically and logically.
Limit Media Consumption: Constant exposure to news cycles can amplify anxiety and distress. Set healthy boundaries around media consumption, and consider taking breaks to protect your mental health.
Stay Connected to Supportive Relationships: Talk with trusted friends, family, or support groups who can offer a listening ear. Engaging in meaningful discussions with people who respect your views—whether they agree or disagree—can foster healing and unity.
Focus on Your Values and What You Can Control: Invest your energy in activities that align with your core values, whether that’s volunteering, engaging in community work, or spending time on a personal project. Redirecting your focus to areas within your control can instill a sense of purpose and calm. You can only control what you can control.
Remember What Matters Most
While election results can feel monumental, it’s important to refocus on what truly matters. In our walk with the Lord, our ultimate allegiance is to His kingdom and His love, not a political party or candidate. As believers, we are called to be salt and light, shining and representing God’s love and grace even in challenging times.
Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to “look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” While we navigate a world that is constantly shifting, God’s love and purpose for us remain steadfast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with post-election emotions, remember it’s okay to feel unsettled or unsure. You should also remember that peace, comfort, and clarity are available to you—both through God’s word and through practical, grounded steps that support your mental health. Keep looking inward, stay connected to what truly matters, and allow faith and the Word of God to guide you through turbulent times.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out for support. At MFT for the Soul, we’re here to walk with you through the challenges of life, offering a listening ear, encouragement, and tools to help you thrive.
