Pandemic, Election Among Factors Causing Anxiety Nationwide

A recent Associated Press survey showed more than half of American voters feel our nation is going down the wrong path.

The American Psychological Association released a poll last month showing 68 percent of adults feel that this election is a source of stress and anxiety. 

Some Tulsans said they believe the United States lacks unity. One human relations expert told News On 6 that the pandemic, election and civil unrest combined cause a great deal of anxiety. 

"I do pray. I do reach out,” Tulsa resident Laura Burkett said. “If I didn't have that relationship, if I didn't have that spirit, you know, I think I'd be at home feeling very depressed right now." 

"There's more of a divide than feeling united in the United States,” said Brooke Newhouse, TU psychology major. 

Dr. Brenda Lloyd-Jones is with the Department of Human Relations at OU-Tulsa. Dr. Lloyd-Jones said there is a phenomenon going around called election stress disorder.

In fact, just days following the last presidential election, medical professionals said they saw an increase in cardiac-related hospitalizations. 

"It's mainly because of the vitriol and the name-calling that's exhibited through candidates,” said Dr. Lloyd-Jones. “Consequently, that flows over to family members as well as friends in discussions." 

Protests and rallies have already taken place following Joe Biden's projected win. President Trump has filed lawsuits calling into question ballot procedures in several battleground states. 

Dr. Lloyd-Jones suggests limiting conversations about politics and your time spent scrolling through social media. 

"We don't want to focus on candidates. Think about focusing on causes,” said Dr. Lloyd-Jones. “How can we focus on equality? Justice?" 

Psychologists recommend finding ways to ground yourself like exercising outdoors. Studies show spending time in nature lowers your heart rate and blood pressure. Health professionals also said your body releases Oxytocin, a feel-good hormone, while cuddling with animals. 

Newhouse said that the outcome of the election isn't falling in her favor but said bridging the divide starts with respect. 

“He (President-elect Biden) will be my president. I will respect him and what he tries to do for the country," Newhouse said.