Well, America, the day we’ve all been anticipating has finally arrived. We held our breath, cast our votes, intertwined our fingers, and prayed for a positive outcome. We hoped our nation would choose to restore dignity and respect for the presidency. We wished that fewer bigots would cast their votes and that more individuals who support equality would step up. We longed to replace this self-absorbed, erratic individual with someone who values science and can lead us effectively in battling COVID-19.
However, it’s evident that this is not a straightforward journey. Given Trump’s involvement, the process has been marred by insults and misinformation spread across Twitter, accompanied by a slew of new lawsuits because, naturally, any time he faces a setback, it’s deemed “unfair” or “rigged.”
The anxiety we’ve experienced leading up to this moment—tension that has knotted our shoulders, triggered headaches, and robbed us of sleep—is far from over. Donald Trump, surprisingly, continues to create chaos for our nation.
So we wait. We await the final results. We anticipate Trump’s next moves. We wonder what further damage he might inflict to deepen our divides, spread animosity, incite violence, and wreak havoc on a country he pledged to serve honorably, but instead has treated like a reality show for his amusement.
I’m glued to the screen tonight because four years ago, I went to bed thinking Hillary had won, only to wake up to a shocking reality.
Confessionals
Confessional #25804152: I’m anxious about watching the election results tonight.
Confessional #25804057: This election has me feeling paralyzed; I really need to focus on self-care again.
Confessional #25802282: The memories of that terrible night in 2016 haunt us. Despite encouraging poll numbers and record-breaking early voting, we know the feeling of having the rug pulled out from beneath us, and we’re desperate to avoid that sensation again.
This election and the pandemic are draining my spirit.
Confessional #25800148: The combination of the pandemic, the election, and the early darkness of winter has sent my anxiety and depression into overdrive. I’m not sure I’ll make it through the winter or if I even want to.
Confessional #25799712: I’m exhausted from the constant sadness. I just want both the pandemic and the election to be over.
Confessional #25794530: The pressure of this election is taking a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Once the dust settles, we need to prioritize self-care.
I’m looking forward to the end of the election, yet remain uncertain about the days that follow, no matter the outcome.
Confessional #25803980: I’m filled with anxiety about next week. I’m eager for the election to conclude, but I’m genuinely concerned about the aftermath, regardless of who wins.
Confessional #25803615: I’m staying put today, stockpiling supplies over the past months. I hope I won’t need them, but I feel slightly more secure by adding a little extra each time. Still, the anxiety of this election looms large; I just hope for no violence.
But even if Trump officially loses, can we truly relax? Can we take a deep breath and feel at ease? Or will he stir up violence, initiate endless lawsuits, and cling to his desk in the Oval Office, refusing to leave? Anything seems possible with someone like him.
From November 3rd until January 20th, I wish I could escape. My anxiety is at an all-time high because of this election. How did we end up here?
Confessional #25803974: I just want this election and the COVID chaos to be behind us so I can return to normal life! Actually, scratch that; I want to stay home as much as now but without the threats of death from the virus or civil unrest. So, I guess I’m a hermit now.
Confessional #25803950: I put my son to bed early and am drinking wine on the couch with my partner, watching the election results come in. I feel like this night will be etched in my memory forever, regardless of the outcome.
Some of us want to shut our eyes and wake up months later when it’s all over. Others are glued to multiple news outlets, anxiously monitoring history as it unfolds. Regardless, this situation is consuming America right now, and we’re all feeling the strain.
This election has taken a toll on relationships.
Confessional #25803253: My partner is turning into a bitter person amid the election chaos. He supports Trump and is upset that I voted for Biden; I’m not sure our marriage will survive this.
Confessional #25803220: My husband barely speaks to me over the election.
Confessional #25800476: This election is damaging my marriage. We’re at odds, and it’s causing immense stress. He idolizes Trump, and I can’t comprehend why. It sickens me, especially considering we have daughters. I fear for their future.
Confessional #25800091: I realized how few “true friends” I have as I struggled to find someone to confide in with the impending election.
Unfortunately, the 2020 election has driven wedges between families, strained marriages, and fractured friendships, leaving many without hope for reconciliation. Once this chapter closes, we will all need to heal. Rebuilding bridges, making amends, and addressing the damage done during this administration will be crucial.
Our country hasn’t been this divided in a long time, and significant work lies ahead. Hopefully, the first step will be removing the current administration and replacing it with a leader who embodies civility and compassion. Perhaps then, once he’s gone and his social media presence is permanently silenced, we can finally exhale and let some of this election-related anxiety fade away.
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In summary, the stress surrounding the election is palpable, affecting our mental health and relationships. Many Americans are grappling with anxiety as they await the results while reflecting on the potential fallout, regardless of the outcome. As we navigate this turbulent period, self-care and healing will be essential to move forward together.