Ah, Election Day. That magical time of year when everyone’s emotions are on a rollercoaster, social media becomes a war zone, and you start questioning if that one uncle will ever stop posting conspiracy theories.
If you’re anything like me, Election Day is a mix of excitement, dread, and an overwhelming desire to bury your head in a bowl of ice cream. 
Here’s my Election Day mental health survival plan—because, let’s face it, we all need one.
1. Plan Your Media Consumption (So You Don’t Lose Your Mind)
I love a good news update as much as the next person, but Election Day coverage is like standing in front of a firehose of opinions and stress.
This year, I’m giving myself specific windows to check the news. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for not being glued to the TV all day (and you might actually get some work done).
2. Go Outside and Breathe (Seriously, the Air Won’t Bite)
On Election Day, the only thing worse than constant news is staying cooped up indoors with constant news.
So I’m scheduling a walk or just stepping outside to remind myself that fresh air exists and that the world hasn’t ended yet.
Bonus points if you pet a dog or two while you’re at it.
3. Call a Friend Who Won’t Judge Your Nervous Rambling
I’ve got a few friends on speed dial who know how to calm me down—either by talking me through my emotions or by cracking jokes until I forget why I was panicking.
If you don’t have a friend like that, feel free to join my club of people texting memes to each other to make it through Election Day.
4. Breathe In, Breathe Out—And Don’t Forget to Let It Out
Breathing is the original stress reliever, so I’m planning to take several deep breaths throughout the day.
I’m talking full-on yoga mode: in through the nose, out through the mouth.
There are also some cool meditation apps, but let’s be honest—I’m just trying not to hyperventilate into a paper bag by noon.
5. Distract, Distract, Distract!
Whether it’s re-watching a classic feel-good movie or baking cookies I probably shouldn’t eat in one sitting, a little distraction can go a long way.
I’ve got a “happy playlist” and an episode of The Office lined up for when things get too intense. Whatever works to keep my mind off things is fair game.
6. Social Media Boundaries—Because Your Mental Health Deserves It
If social media is a dumpster fire on a regular day, it’s an out-of-control blaze on Election Day.
So, I’m planning to put my phone on “do not disturb” and avoid scrolling for hours.
Honestly, not seeing your second cousin’s rant about how his vote is more valid than anyone else’s is a win for everyone involved.
7. Feel What You Feel—Even If That’s Just Confusion
Election Day is emotional. There’s hope, fear, anger, and maybe even a bit of excitement (okay, a lot of anxiety).
The best plan is to give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up—without judging yourself.
You’re human, and this stuff is intense. So, whether you’re celebrating, mourning, or just staring blankly at the TV wondering how we got here, it’s okay.
We’ve Got This (Maybe)
If Election Day is an emotional hurricane, then having a mental health plan is like building a storm shelter.
Take care of yourself, take breaks, avoid the drama where you can, and don’t be afraid to call for backup.
Just remember: your mental health matters way more than the hot takes on social media.
We’ll get through this, one funny meme and deep breath at a time.
