Could You Be Suffering From Election Stress Disorder?

By Hallie Peilet

With the election less than two weeks away, experts say it may be beneficial to step away from contentious discussions.

Dr. Natalie Dattilo is a clinical psychologist and adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine. She says talking about the election too much can lead to what she calls Election Stress Disorder.

“I think it’s a topic about which we feel very passionate. And so when there’s passion and emotion involved, we stop thinking very clearly. We stop thinking in rational ways and making good decisions and helpful decisions, and we’re just running on emotion,” Dattilo says.

Talking politics can be difficult when it comes to friends and family. Dr. Datillo says it’s a great opportunity to practice listening to other people’s opinions with tolerance and interest.

“It’s okay to set limits on some of those conversations if they get out of hand. Just take a timeout or a breather,” Datillo says.

Dr. Dattilo suggests going outside and getting fresh air.