We all know that dwelling on these feelings isn’t healthy, but how can you calm down and quell this rising tide of anxiety? How can you actually relax? We spoke to seven therapists to get their expert opinion and polled Teen Vogue staff about how they stay grounded in the midst of chaos.

How to deal with election anxiety

While we wait for the results to come in, experts understand that the lack of control we have over the election can be worrying. Finding small ways to gain some control—like limiting your social media use or practicing mindfulness—can go a long way. Here are some tips on how to deal with election anxiety as the votes are counted:

log off

“It is critical that we remain vigilant about how the dynamics of the election season may affect us. Be aware of how certain political issues or headlines trigger intense emotional responses in you, as these reactions can cloud your judgment and drag you into unnecessary drama. Anxiety often occurs when we feel out of control, so setting boundaries around media consumption is a way to regain control and avoid being overwhelmed. Focus on constructive conversations and activities that foster understanding rather than deepening divisions.” -Dr. Scott LyonsDR

Follow your own rules

“Many teenagers feel the pressure of being constantly informed about election updates, but this can quickly become overwhelming. I encourage setting specific times to check news from 1-2 trusted sources rather than scrolling through social media. This balanced approach helps you stay informed while protecting your mental health.” –Shannon Hanrahan, Ph.D., chairman of the board of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

Visit friends and family

“Practicing mindfulness and grounding exercises can help you stay in the present. Spend time with loved ones, engage in physical activity and take care of yourself. Focus on the things you have control over so you don’t feel helpless while waiting for the election results.” –Bisma AnwarLPC, LMHC, Talkspace Therapist

Learn what you can control

“When processing an election loss, it’s helpful to distinguish between what you can and can’t control. While you can’t control the overall outcome, you can control how you respond, how you support others, and how you continue to advocate for the issues that matter to you. Focus your energy on these actionable areas and reach out to trusted adults, friends, or professionals mental health professionals who can provide support.” –Robin Andersen, LMFTpast board chair of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

Breathe

“While waiting for election results, our bodies can get stuck in a fight-or-flight response. Taking moments throughout the day to practice grounding exercises—like feeling your feet on the floor, noticing five things you can see, or taking ten slow breaths—can help reset your nervous system and reduce anxiety .” -Joy Alafia, executive director of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

How to Cope if Your Candidate Loses

Once we’re past the waiting stage, a new kind of anxiety and stress can arise if our favorite candidate loses. It’s so understandable – there’s a lot on the line. If you’re feeling down about the election results, these experts offered advice on how to refocus your thoughts and ease the stress you’re feeling in the coming years.

Take action

“While it may be upsetting if your candidate loses, remember that we Americans are more the same than we are different. You can also stay active and support causes that are important to you, regardless of the outcome. Action can help with disappointment and stress.” –Jill DainoLCSW-R, The Talkspace Therapist

But also take breaks

“If you’re dealing with intense emotions after the election, remember that it’s okay to take breaks from the news and social media while staying engaged. Striking a balance between being informed and protecting your mental health is crucial to sustainable civic engagement.” –Holly DanielsPhD, LMFT, Director of Clinical Affairs, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

How to relax

Ok, you put down the phone, turned off the TV and asked your mom to stop yelling about polls. What’s next? Sitting and staring at a wall probably won’t help calm your fear, so I asked Teen Vogue team how they keep their brains busy and fear at bay (or at least try to).

put your hand

That I Looking forward to the results, I’ll be sewing, crocheting and knitting to keep my hands and brain busy – and my eyes off the screen. These types of projects hold my attention so well that I find little chance of worry when doing them. Who knows, I might come out of election week with a whole new wardrobe.

Prepare comfort food

Allegra Kirklandour policy director, has hit the kitchen to relieve his stress (which, given the job title, you can imagine is significant). She made turkey chili, her mom’s arroz con pollo and other comfort foods she can heat up quickly when her “brain is made of Swiss cheese.”

go outside

Alyssa Hardy, Teen VogueIts contributing style director puts on his running shoes to deal with election anxiety. She will run, go to the thrift store and watch gossip girl as a way to calm your mind.

Review your favorite characters

P. Claire Dodsonsenior culture editor, turns to a cozy classic TV. He also looked again gossip girl instead scrolling doom and playing video games to keep his brain busy.

Practice Mindfulness

Skyley Alvarez, Teen Vogue editorial assistant, set a timer for every 15 to 20 minutes. When the alarm goes off, she will write down everything she notices at that moment. “(It) surprisingly helps me feel very present,” she says.

Find a mental escape

News writer Angie Jaime will take care of her neglected Islanders in Animal Crossing to deal with election stress. Playing comforting games helps her keep her mind off the anxiety-inducing reality.