Managing Your Mental Health this Election Season Strategy: Do Good for Others

Election rhetoric got you down? At this point in election season, you may be tired of negative news, political ads, and emotional campaigns. When we feel flooded with negativity, it can leave us feeling hopeless and anxious.

The antidote? Bringing positivity back into our lives.

A great remedy for negativity and hopelessness is doing good for others. When we use our mental and physical energy to support others, we also support our own mental health. Doing things that feel good can help our brain release the neurotransmitter dopamine, which improves our mood.

Consider these ideas:

• Donate time or money to an organization you are passionate about
• Organize a donation drive, asking friends and neighbors to donate an item for those in need. Gather the items together and deliver them in person, if possible.
• Send a “just for fun” note or card to someone
• Set a goal to compliment ten people throughout the day
• Have a conversation with someone you don’t know well

Getting involved in our communities and doing good for others can pull us out of cycles of negativity and improve our mental health, allowing us to feel hopeful and optimistic despite the political scene.