For some trauma survivors, events like #Election2020 can feel even more intense than it does for everyone else.

People who came of age in unpredictable environments (perhaps around people who remind them a lot of Trump) get used to the feeling of anticipating chaos. Sometimes it can even feel like excitement.

It can also feel like waiting for the other shoe to drop or for things to blow up. We get used to the feeling and then start to depend on it. It feels normal.

Big events like the pandemic and election can feel similar. We want things to turn out OK but we also have this pull toward the drama and chaos. It’s just how our brains work.

Then, when the danger/excitement passes we’re left feeling deflated, sometimes even empty. We can also have some shame about our conflicting feelings. Just remember, feeling this way is normal, especially in the context of trauma.

Find things to do that fill you up and keep you present. Recognize that your emotions & reactions are automatic and nothing to be ashamed of. Talk to someone about how you’re feeling. Get off social media for a while.

Anyway, just some musings this post-election week. If you relate to these feelings, I hope this was helpful and you feel a little more centered today

Another tip - is you need to rest or sleep all day, DO IT. Sometimes the come down just feels like you’re crashing. Exhaustion.