"Can't Sleep Out of Frustration Over Opposition's Landslide Victory"... You Are Experiencing 'PESD'

Post-Election Stress Similar to PTSD
‘PESD’ Named as Mental Illness Rises After US Presidential Election
Severe Stress Regardless of Political Views
Complex Factors Including Social Media, News, and Local Environment
Limit Excessive Immersion and Practice Mindfulness Like Meditation

Two days before the 22nd National Assembly election, voters are watching a campaign in front of Dongmyo Station in Seoul Subway on the 8th. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

The April 10 general election ended in a landslide victory for the opposition, leading to mixed emotions. After an election held under extreme tension for both candidates and voters, some people are experiencing physical and mental health warning signs such as anxiety, depression, and headaches. In the United States, this is referred to as Post-Election Stress Disorder (PESD), a play on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The American mental health platform BetterHelp stated, "The term PESD gained popularity after the 2016 U.S. presidential election and was widely discussed throughout the 2020 election," adding, "This term may be insensitive to those suffering from PTSD, a real mental disorder where functional levels are significantly impaired due to traumatic events." They continued, "While this stress is not necessarily a mental illness, it can be managed using unique coping mechanisms and support systems."

Two days before the 22nd National Assembly election, voters are watching the campaign in front of Dongmyo Station in Seoul Subway on the 8th. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

Post-election stress is related to anxiety characterized by feelings of despair or fear following an important political election. According to a survey conducted in the U.S. after the 2020 presidential election, 68% of American adults, regardless of political affiliation, reported that the presidential election caused significant stress in their lives. Post-election stress often occurs after presidential elections but can apply to any election in which an individual feels emotionally invested.

People with little or no interest in politics may not experience this type of stress. Instead, it may stem from changes in the political climate, characterized by polarized views and frequent personal connections to political beliefs. Some individuals may take election results personally, while others may feel stressed about what the outcomes could mean for changes in national laws.

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, along with the party leadership, the winners of the April 10 general election, and co-representatives Yoon Young-deok and Baek Seung-ah of the Democratic United Party, visited the National Cemetery in Dongjak-gu, Seoul on the 12th to pay tribute to the patriotic martyrs. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

Several factors contribute to the increasing intensity of post-election stress. First, real-time election news coverage and the flood of both factual and fake information on social media and 24-hour news channels cause stress. Additionally, even individuals who do not participate in politics can be affected by the stressful political atmosphere as friends, family, and colleagues discuss their views at work, home, or school.

This is also linked to growing concerns about the country's future. BetterHelp noted, "Issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare, racial discrimination, economic crises, climate change, and laws related to transgender rights frequently dominate the news," adding, "While staying connected to national news can be valuable for some, following these connections and daily events can negatively impact an individual's mental and physical health."

Handonghun, Emergency Response Committee Chairman of the People Power Party, is greeting before expressing his position on the general election defeat at the People Power Party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 11th. Photo by Jo Yongjun jun21@

BetterHelp lists symptoms of post-election stress disorder as ▲despair ▲constant worry ▲forgetfulness ▲heart palpitations ▲excessive sweating ▲stomach upset ▲headaches ▲lack of energy ▲insomnia ▲irritability ▲tinnitus ▲muscle pain, advising that if any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, one should consult a doctor.

To overcome post-election stress, it is recommended to take a break from election-related social media and news for a day or two. If you feel powerless because a party you do not support won the election, you can find solace by participating in local political activities or volunteering for political organizations. You do not need to run for office but can engage in grassroots activities related to the issues you care about most. Yoga, meditation, or mindfulness are also beneficial. Using apps that guide meditation practice can help. You can try meditation anytime?before sleeping at night or in the morning before work or school.