Post-Election Uncertainty and Its Effects on Women’s Mental Health

The emotional aftermath of the 2024 presidential election has deeply affected many women across the country. Following November 5th, a wave of feelings including anxiety, anger, sadness, and even a sense of hopelessness has swept through the female demographic. Research consistently indicates that the political climate, particularly during election seasons, has emerged as a significant stressor for a majority of Americans. However, women have been more prone than men to express concerns about how the outcomes might directly influence their lives. This aligns with findings from the 2016 election, where women reported heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and fear in the aftermath compared to their male counterparts.

Throughout the election season, issues that directly impact women were frequently brought to the forefront of discussions. A multitude of diverse opinions and proposed policies has led to considerable uncertainty regarding the future. Women are particularly concerned about critical questions, such as the direction of health care for women and whether laws ensuring equality in the workplace will be altered or preserved. Additionally, many women are navigating the complexities of maintaining relationships with loved ones who hold differing political views, creating further tension. Despite the results being in, uncertainty lingers regarding which policy areas will receive priority and what new laws may be enacted. The impact of the new administration on women’s daily lives remains a pressing concern.

A significant source of anxiety stems from an inherent intolerance of uncertainty. Individuals prone to anxiety often seek clarity on future events and their coping mechanisms. In the current post-election landscape, reasonable uncertainty prevails, as the government has proposed substantial changes. In such scenarios, proactive problem-solving and planning may seem warranted. However, anxiety can also lead to unreasonable uncertainty—often termed “catastrophizing”—where individuals leap to the worst-case conclusions without any present evidence to substantiate those fears.

When confronted with unreasonable uncertainty, we often resort to various coping mechanisms in an attempt to regain control. These behaviors might include excessive Googling for information, seeking reassurance from others, meticulously planning for every conceivable outcome, or even avoidance. Some might believe that these certainty-seeking actions are essential to shield themselves from unfavorable outcomes. However, upon reflection, many of these behaviors are merely attempts to protect oneself from uncomfortable emotions. Regrettably, these same coping strategies can keep us trapped in an anxious mindset, fixating on distressing possibilities and perpetuating doubt.

Instead of resisting uncertainty, we can cultivate a practice of accepting discomfort. Acceptance involves a willingness to experience all emotions, rather than evading or escaping them. It is essential to understand that acceptance is not synonymous with approval, permission, or appreciation. It merely acknowledges the reality of a situation by saying, “I recognize that I cannot change this, so I will allow myself to feel whatever is necessary.”

This perspective does not imply that women must passively accept changes they disagree with. Rather, accepting emotions is distinct from accepting political outcomes. Acceptance means recognizing that in the current political landscape, the feeling of uncertainty regarding the future is likely to persist for an extended period.

Rather than engaging in actions driven by fear, we can focus on making choices that align with our core values. Engaging in value-driven activities might include volunteering in local initiatives or reaching out to state representatives at local, state, and federal levels. Such actions can empower individuals and foster a sense of community.

If you are a woman grappling with anxiety and anger in the wake of the election, remember that you are not alone. A multitude of others are also navigating the uncertainty of impending changes. Embracing these challenging emotions can pave the way for more constructive responses to the evolving political landscape.

This post is presented in collaboration with ADAA’s Women’s Mental Health SIG. Learn more about the SIG.