With the presidential election just three months away many residents will be breathing a huge sigh of relief when it is over. The election season has been intense and stress for many only increased after the attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump. SSM Health psychologist Dr. Matt Doll says while there has always been polarization to some degree during presidential elections, he hasn’t seen anything quite like what we’re experiencing today. “I do think the lack of civility and the tension and with the constant pounding trying to get our attention in ways that are designed to get us jacked up, that’s what I see more now,” Dr. Doll told AM 1170s Between the Lines program. Dr. Doll says compounding the problem are adversaries like Russia turning to unwitting Americans to spread disinformation about the U.S. presidential race. “It’s pretty frightening that we’re so gullible and not paying attention to where our information comes from,” Dr. Doll said. Dr. Doll says it’s important to pay attention to your stress level in order to take steps to managing stress, including focusing on what you can control. Separate people and their inherent value from their viewpoints, especially when it comes to family and friends. Stay mindful, set boundaries, and remember the Golden Rule: Don’t villainize if you don’t want to be villainized.
