With cries from the left proclaiming the end of democracy and accusations of racism, many Democrats have been consumed by stress and fear over the prospect of another four years of a Trump presidency. For years, mainstream media platforms amplified this sentiment, fueling apprehension and a sense of impending doom. Now, with Trump not only securing the presidency once again but also winning the popular vote, this cycle of alarm has reached a fever pitch, creating a climate of panic and unrest.
Adding to the turmoil were Harris supporters who directed their frustrations toward Arab and Muslim communities, accusing them of complicity in Trump’s victory. Some Harris backers targeted those who had voted for Trump or chosen not to vote at all, citing the U.S.’s role in the genocide in Gaza as a reason for their abstention. These groups faced vicious online harassment, including accusations of betrayal and complicity in the administration’s policies. Disturbingly, the disenfranchisement of voters with family members in Gaza, who expressed despair over their treatment, was summarily dismissed in these heated exchanges.
The reactions this election unleashed were profoundly unsettling. Men and women openly wept—some even live on news broadcasts—reacting to the results as though experiencing a personal tragedy. Social media became a battleground of virtual hate, with Trump supporters branded as “Nazis” and worse. Black women, enraged at those who voted for Trump, openly wished on social media for Black men to die at the hands of racist police. Meanwhile, MSNBC host Joy Reid attacked White women for their support of Trump, accusing them of betraying marginalized communities. These intense emotions created an online landscape of anger and division, suffocating any possibility of constructive dialogue or mutual understanding.
This wasn’t just disappointment; it was a complete mental breakdown for some. Ironically, this reaction came because democracy worked. The outcome, cemented through both the electoral system and the popular vote, revealed a seismic shift in the cultural and political fabric of the nation. This election wasn’t just a political event; it was a cultural reckoning, exposing deep fractures in how Americans view one another and how we process outcomes that defy our expectations.
The 2024 election brought significant stress and division within the Black community, revealing how identity politics and political expectations can impact Black mental health. Kamala Harris’s historic candidacy as the first Black woman on a presidential ticket created immense pressure to support her, framed as a moral obligation and a victory for representation. However, for many Black voters who felt disillusioned with the Democratic Party’s policies, this expectation created feelings of alienation and frustration. The tension between celebrating identity and demanding substantive policy change weighed heavily on the mental well-being of Black voters, particularly as the narrative of “making history” clashed with the diverse realities of Black communities.
The hostile discourse surrounding dissenting views further strained Black mental health, with accusations of betrayal, self-hate, and misogyny directed at those who questioned Harris’s candidacy or the party’s platform. Black men, in particular, faced targeted criticism, adding to existing societal pressures and stereotypes. The failure to acknowledge the diversity of Black experiences—across geography, socioeconomic status, and ideology—exacerbated feelings of isolation for many. This election highlighted the urgent need for spaces that foster understanding, empathy, and support within the Black community to address the emotional toll of political and cultural expectations, and to prioritize mental health alongside social and political progress.
As the dust settles, the fallout has left many questioning not just the strength of our democracy but also the stability of their mental well-being and the cohesion of their communities. The road to healing will require confronting these divisions with honesty, empathy, and a commitment to bridging the growing chasm in our collective identity.
The Emotional Impact of Political Outcomes
For those who feel that their core values are tied to political outcomes, losing isn’t just a disappointment—it’s personal devastation. Identity politics has turned elections into litmus tests for morality and worthiness. When “your side” loses, it can feel like the world is rejecting your values, your voice, and even your identity.
This reaction isn’t limited to any one political ideology. Across the spectrum, people are engaging with politics in ways that make every election a potential crisis. The result? A growing epidemic of stress, anxiety, and depression tied to political events. For some, this manifests as outright despair; for others, it takes the form of anger and resentment, lashing out at those they hold responsible.
The Role of Media in Heightening the Divide
The media landscape only worsens these emotional reactions. News outlets and social media platforms amplify outrage because it drives clicks, views, and ad revenue. Algorithms curate content that validates our beliefs while portraying those who disagree as enemies. This echo chamber effect deepens polarization and leaves us feeling more isolated than ever.
During this election, I saw friends and family members cut ties over political disagreements. Social media turned into a battleground, with unfollowing and blocking replacing civil discourse. For many, the weight of this division has been unbearable.
Read: How Mainstream Media Lost to Podcasts in the 2024 Election
Healing from the Election: A Wellness Perspective
As a health and wellness coach, I often remind my clients that while we can’t control external events, we can control how we respond to them. In the wake of this election, we must prioritize our mental and emotional health. Here are steps to begin the healing process:
- Step Away from the Noise: Limit exposure to news and social media, especially if it heightens your stress or anger. Engage with reliable sources, but avoid falling into the trap of constant consumption.
- Acknowledge Your Emotions: Whether you feel anger, sadness, or confusion, allow yourself to process these emotions without judgment. Write them down, talk to someone you trust, or seek professional support if needed.
- Focus on What You Can Control: The outcome of the election is settled, but you still have the power to make a difference. Volunteer for causes you care about, connect with your local community, and advocate for issues that matter to you.
- Rediscover Your Identity: You are more than your political beliefs. Spend time nurturing other aspects of yourself, like hobbies, relationships, or personal goals. Diversifying your identity can reduce the emotional stakes of political outcomes.
- Practice Empathy: Resist the urge to demonize those who voted differently. Seek to understand their perspectives—not to agree, but to bridge the divide and reduce the hostility that fuels division.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Exercise, eat well, sleep, and engage in mindfulness practices to strengthen your resilience. Your mental and physical health are crucial tools for navigating challenging times.
Read: Is Pharaoh letting Black People go? Embracing True Independence for the Black Community
Rebuilding a Healthier Political Engagement
The results of this election revealed how deeply identity politics has permeated our society. For many, politics is no longer about policies but about affirming their sense of self. While this can create passion, it can also create pain.
As we move forward, we must learn to separate our political beliefs from our personal worth. Let’s approach disagreements with curiosity rather than contempt, seeking common ground wherever possible. This is not just about healing ourselves—it’s about healing our nation.
Trump’s victory—popular vote and all—may not align with everyone’s hopes, but it’s a reminder of the resilience of our democratic process. Elections are won and lost, but the relationships we build and the empathy we foster can endure far beyond any political cycle.
It’s time to step back, breathe, and reclaim our sense of balance. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means moving forward with strength and purpose. Let’s use this moment not to deepen divisions but to rebuild connections—starting with ourselves.
