This election season, there’s no shortage of news. Many of us consume news every day… even when we don’t realize it. It is important to care for our mental health during this time, as the constant stream of information can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. While staying informed is important, so is our emotional wellbeing.

Take stock of your current news intake related to the election. Ask yourself:

• How many times a day do I see or hear something election-related?
• How many news programs, podcasts or other media do I consume in a day/week?
• How much of my social media algorithm is election-related?
• How many of my daily conversations are about the election?

Too much news can increase stress hormones and increase feelings of anxiety and hopelessness.

What can we do about it?

• Be honest about how much news you’re intaking. You may not have the TV on all day, but you’re likely getting news from various sources throughout the day, without even noticing it.

• Pay attention to how your body feels after consuming news. Notice any tension in your shoulders or jaw, clenching of muscles or stomach or digestive issues. These body clues can help us know when we’ve had enough.

• Pay attention to your mood after consuming news. Do you feel more engaged? Less? Do you feel more alert? More tired? Do you feel hopeful? Frustrated? Irritated? Anxious? Energized?

• Take breaks. The news will be waiting for you when you’re ready to engage again! Set a timer and dedicate it “election-free time”. In this window of time, avoid news sources, scroll past election content online, and don’t engage in conversations about the news.

• Manage social media engagement. Remind yourself that you don’t have to engage with every person or comment on social media, even if they’re family or close friends.

• Search for good news. Election news can be heavy and feel overwhelming at times. Balancing this news with good news can remind us of moments of joy and humanity. Seek out feel-good news stories to counter-balance election news.

Being informed is important, but there is such a thing as “too much”. Breaks from news can support our mental health and allow us to stay engaged and healthy for the duration of this season.