Today marks the end of a long and intense election season. This year’s campaigns have been filled with a steady stream of messages—many of them more negative than positive—which has left us feeling stressed and on edge. As tensions and divisions have grown, it’s now time to bring some joy and calm back into our lives. Many of us are eager to return to a sense of peace, quiet, and unity with friends, family, and neighbors—no matter which side of the aisle they support.
To find out how we can regain a sense of calm and balance after such an intense time, we turned to Albert Ujkaj, Director of Behavioral Health at Hamilton Community Health Network. We asked him, “How do we find our calm again? How do we transition from an atmosphere of division and finger-pointing to one of peace and calm?” Albert shares that while election season can amplify feelings of stress, there are effective ways to bring more peace and calm into our lives. He offers strategies to help us unwind, reconnect, and create space for a fresh, hopeful outlook on the days ahead.
Here are 5 tips he shared that will help create calm in your life.
- Focus on What You Can Control
When it feels like so much is out of our hands, focusing on what we can control is a powerful way to ease anxiety and feel empowered. While we can’t always change others’ opinions or the outcome of events, we can control our own actions, responses, and the way we choose to engage with others. This includes how we share our viewpoints and approach conversations with those who may not agree. - Focus on What Brings You Joy
Spend time on activities that make you feel happy and peaceful—whether it’s reading, spending time with friends, or enjoying a favorite hobby. Focusing on things you love can lift your mood and reduce stress. - Connect with Supportive People
Surround yourself with people who make you feel understood and calm. Chatting with friends or family members who share your values can be comforting and remind you that you’re not alone. - Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on what you’re grateful for. Practicing gratitude and staying mindful of the present moment can help shift focus away from lingering stress and cultivate a sense of inner peace. Even small gestures, like taking a deep breath or appreciating a simple joy in your day, can bring calm and remind you of the good that exists in the world. When we make a habit of gratitude, it becomes easier to manage stress and remain grounded, even during challenging times. - Practice Self-Care
Take time to care for your body by eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Physical health is essential for staying calm. “Stress and worry can be linked to inflammation in our bodies, which creates physical pain such as painful or tight shoulders or even migraines,” explained Ujkaj. This pain can often be a warning sign that your stress is taking its toll on your body, and that you need to prioritize yourself and your wellbeing.”
At Hamilton Community Health Network, we believe that caring for yourself is essential. Your mental wellness is just as important as your physical health. Using these tips, you can stay calm, focused, and positive today and every day. If you are interested in talking with a mental health counselor, give Hamilton a call at 810-406-4246.
