HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) – Despite mixed reactions to the 2024 election, locals agreed on the importance of prioritizing health this election season.

Most people walking through Bushnell Park said it was a good time to take a break and examine their physical and mental health.

Those who were satisfied with the election results said they had been stressed over the past four years.

Others who felt anxious about President-elect Trump’s victory said they felt scared for years to come.

Sarah Lindemulder and her husband wanted to wake up and celebrate a promotion for Vice President Harris.

“He seemed like the perfect candidate, and I’m really shocked and surprised that he lost as of now,” Lindemulder said.

The couple cleared their minds by spending the afternoon in Bushnell Park.

Channel 3 took to Facebook to ask how people are feeling the day after Election Day.

There was a big response from Facebook users with over 4,000 comments with mixed emotions.

Despite conflicting emotions, most agreed that prioritizing stress management methods is important during this transition period.

“I am actively going to therapy. So that’s a huge help,” said Sarah Lindemulder of Hartford.

69 percent of Americans across political affiliations feel higher levels of stress.

Psychiatrist at Hartford Hospital and Life Institute, Dr. Laura Saunders, said: “This is an opportunity to set some boundaries for yourself. You might not be off social media, I might be on the news.”

Dr. Saunders said breathing techniques, exercise or finding a hobby are great calming practices.

“Every day, I will do at least one good and kind thing for someone else,” said Mary-Jane Foster of Hartford. “This is how I’ll get through the next four years.”

Victoria Pina of Hartford said, “Actually, I just started turning to prayer. In previous elections, no, I did not use it as a guide (or) as a guide. Going forward, because of the way the world is, that’s what I’m doing now.”

Everyone in the park felt that getting outside in the fresh air was beneficial.

Regardless of the outcome of the election, now is the time to prioritize mental and physical health.

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