Election stress is real: A psychiatrist shares how to protect your mental health

The weight of election season is turning into real stress for many people.Political tension, non-stop headlines, ads and uncertainty can take a toll, but mental health experts say understanding why and knowing what tools to use can help combat it.2026 midterm election results | Key races for Senate, House and governorAccording to the American Psychological Association, 69% of adults in the U.S. reported the 2024 presidential election was a significant source of stress. For many voters like Christy Warren, keeping your sanity through it all has been a challenge."You cannot escape it. It's exhausting. It's everyday. It's multiple times a day," Warren said.From the texts, to the calls, and the ads everywhere, election season can be relentless."This particular time has been more aggressive than any I've experienced and that to me creates some anxiety. It's just it feels hateful almost," Warren said.Dr. Arash Javanbakht, professor of psychiatry at Wayne State University and author of the bo