Elections are more than just votes — they are decisions that shape the future by nominating a leader for the whole state. For teens, who are often deeply invested in the world they’ll inherit, the outcome of an election can bring powerful emotions. The term election grief captures the sadness, frustration, and stress many young people are feeling right now after the 2024 election results were announced.
Image Credit: Ben White on Unsplash
Let us slide into your dms 🥰
Get notified of top trending articles like this one every week! (we won't spam you)What Is Election Grief, and Why Do Teens Feel It?
Election grief isn’t just disappointment; it’s a mix of emotions tied to the future, fairness, and values. Teens today are more informed and vocal about social justice, climate change, and other pressing issues than ever before. Social media has made it easier to access news and connect with like-minded peers but has also amplified exposure to political debates - in fact, TikTok, a youth oriented social media platform, has 21.8 million videos about “anxiety about the election”. Many teens feel election grief because they’re passionate about causes their presidential choice advocates for, like climate change, social justice, and human rights.
Additionally, the polarized nature of today’s politics can make losses feel intensely personal. For teens whose values are tied to specific causes or candidates, unfavorable election results can evoke feelings of helplessness, anger, sadness, and anxiety. The American Psychological Association Poll reports “69% of people feel significant stress about the 2024 election”. In other words, roughly, every two of three people you ask would be dealing with election anxiety.
When the teens see an outcome they see as a step backward, they can feel discouraged. This depression is apparent in the actions of the Ethical Culture Fieldston School in New York City. This school allowed students to skip class on Wednesday (November 6th, 2024), offered counseling services, and avoided assigning homework the week of the 2024 election.
Unlike adults, teenagers are still forming their sense of control in the world, so political losses may feel especially personal and overwhelming.
Take the Quiz: What Kind of Political Personality Are You?
Ever wondered what role you’d play in the political world? Take this fun quiz to find out!
The Impact of Election Grief on Teens
Election grief can have both emotional and physical effects on teens. Feelings of disappointment can lead to:
- Increased anxiety or stress: Worry about the future or uncertainty about how policies might impact them or loved ones.
- Strained relationships: Political divisions within families or friend groups can lead to conflict or isolation among teens.
- Disengagement: After a loss, some teens may feel like their activism or participation doesn’t matter, discouraging future involvement.
Image Credit: Getty Images on Unsplash
Healthy Ways for Teens to Cope with Election Grief
If you’re a teen grappling with tough emotions after an election, you’re not alone. Here are some strategies to help you navigate election grief:
Turn Grief into Action: Feeling powerless? Focus on what you can do. Volunteer for an organization you believe in, join a community group, or start a conversation about change in your school or neighborhood.
Connect with Supportive People: Share your thoughts with trusted friends or family who understand where you’re coming from. It’s easier to process emotions when you feel heard.
Celebrate Wins, Big or Small: Even if the overall result isn’t what you hoped for, look for signs of progress. Did a candidate you admire gain momentum? Did an important issue receive attention? Acknowledging small wins can keep hope up.
Plan for the Future: Use your frustration as fuel. Research causes you care about and explore ways to get involved. You may not be able to vote yet, but your voice and actions still matter.
Election grief, while painful, is testament to how much young people care about the world around them. By learning to cope with their feelings and channeling their passion into action, teens can to make huge difference in their communities. If you're struggling, remember: every step you take, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter future for everyone.