Following Donald J. Trump’s election as U.S. president in 2024, social media has seen significant expressions of anxiety and disappointment, with many Americans, particularly from underrepresented communities, voicing concerns about the potential impact of this outcome. Trump won the presidency with 277 Electoral College votes, while Vice President Kamala Harris received over 66 million votes, trailing by just 4.8 million—a close margin in several key battleground states.

Mental health professionals, including Veronda Bellamy, founder of the Relevancy Factor and Happyology, are highlighting the challenges posed by election-related stress. Bellamy notes that individuals, especially those in Black, feminist, immigrant, and LGBTQIA communities, may experience heightened anxiety as they process potential shifts in national policy. To mitigate this, she advises setting boundaries on screen time and engaging cautiously with online interactions, particularly given the recent increase in inflammatory messages.

Bellamy also suggests that avoiding immediate, potentially tense political discussions can help preserve personal relationships. In the wake of the election, she encourages allowing time and space for emotional processing, both personally and with others. Citing past research from the American Psychological Association showing that nearly 70% of Americans have felt election-related stress, Bellamy underscores the importance of mental health awareness during this period.

In her concession speech, Vice President Kamala Harris offered a message of resilience, addressing younger generations by reminding them that, while setbacks occur, continued efforts toward positive change are essential. Harris's words, along with Bellamy’s guidance, seek to help Americans navigate the complex emotional landscape following this pivotal election.