(NewsNation) — With two months until the 2024 presidential election, a new Thriving Center of Psychology survey found that 72% of Americans are stressed.
The survey found that 3 in 5 Americans are experiencing “increased stress” after the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, and 60% are concerned about future violence political violence.
“(This is) an election that is really causing a lot of angst for folks and even causing a lot of interpersonal issues in relationships, with families, with friends and certainly at the work site,” Dr. Jeff Gardere, a board-certified clinical psychologist, said Thursday on “Morning in America.”
Americans’ top concerns for the 2024 election include misinformation and disinformation, followed by the election outcome, per the survey. Additionally, 59% are anxious about polarization and social division.
While discussing these issues can help during uncertain times, many people are uncomfortable revealing which candidate they’re supporting, avoid the topic and keep their feelings bottled up.
Gardere said this stems from “making value judgments.”
“People have their personal opinions. They have a personal history, and therefore you really should be much more open to not try to negate or isolate people based on their political belief,” he said. “It’s important to look at respect as being an important part of politics and not scapegoating others.”
Gardere recommends “creating boundaries” around news consumption to help manage stress.
“Take a break from the news every once in a while, try to limit yourself to an hour or two of watching the news,” he said. “When it comes to talking to family and friends, it’s important that we withhold judgment and look at curiosity as to what it is that they have to say.”
Gardere also suggested practicing “empathy” with people who have differing political opinions and taking social media breaks.