Doomscrolling can often be a private shame – just you, your phone and the end of the world. But as I scroll through some of my most recent group texts, I realize I’m far from the only one who feels this way right now. In fact, they’re in good company: the American Psychiatric Association the most recent survey showed that 73% of participants experience some election anxiety.

In many ways, this feeling is completely understandable: this was one of the most chaotic and exciting. electoral cycles in modern history — and it probably won’t be over until Tuesday night. Before Election daywe talked to some experts about the right way to consume the news, stay sane, and keep the doomscrolling at bay.

Consider the Source

You might be tempted to read everything you see on the Internet, but Brittany Snow and Jaspre Guest, co-founders of the Mental Health Coalition Letters from Septemberbut this could lead to feeling overwhelmed. “Remember, there’s a difference between being informed and scrolling non-stop,” Snow and Guest say. Vogueadding, “We also suggest getting your information from a trusted source and not just social media.”

Take time to process the news

Dr. Nicole Cain, ND, MAa trauma-informed clinical psychologist and author of **Panic proof, **suggests implementing a “news processing” routine into your daily routine. “After consuming news, take time to reflect and process the information,” suggests Dr. Cain. “Journaling or talking through your thoughts can help you integrate information in a healthy way. After, try a mouthwash—a 2020 study in Journal of Communication suggests that consumption of funny, light, or soothing environments can generate emotional and physical calm.”

Do something you like

Snow and Guest also point out that there’s nothing wrong with taking a break from the news cycle to do something that brings you joy. “It can be as simple as reading a fun book or dancing to your favorite song.”

Take a break

And then there’s the wait. While we hope for a quick resolution, the results may take some time (see: 2020 election). “Waiting for election results can be overwhelming,” says the reverend Dr. Ronné Wingate Sims. “Relax some of those anxious feelings by taking time to get outside and be present with nature. Being outside or going for a walk and observing the world around you can help slow things down and ease feelings of information overload.”