In The Community
Acknowledge Your Feelings Instead of Bottling Them Up
Photo by Brock Wegner on UnsplashElection night can bring up all kinds of emotions—stress, fear, hope, even anger—and it’s okay to feel all of it. Instead of trying to bury those feelings, take a moment to recognize and name them. If you’re feeling nervous, tell yourself, “I’m anxious about what’s to come.” Allowing yourself to feel without judgment can actually help release the tension and keep you from bottling it up. Vent to a friend, do some journaling, or even say them out loud. Giving those emotions some air helps prevent them from building up and boiling over later on.
Make Plans for Something Fun and Positive
Photo by Jarritos Mexican Soda on UnsplashTo balance out the tension, plan something enjoyable to look forward to—whether that’s cooking your favorite meal, watching a movie you love, or calling a friend for a good laugh. Doing something you genuinely enjoy can be a great distraction and helps bring your attention to something positive, even if just for a little while. Choose activities that keep your hands and mind busy! Engage in something fun that will help you pull away from the “refresh-refresh-refresh” urges.
Take Scheduled Breaks from Election Coverage
Photo by @felipepelaquim on UnsplashConstantly following the updates on election night can wear you out mentally, so give yourself a break by setting boundaries with your news intake. Decide in advance to check for updates only once an hour, or give yourself time windows to do anything else. While you’re on break, focus on activities that have nothing to do with the election. This will help prevent “news fatigue” and allow you to recharge. Also, make sure to set your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode so you don’t get distracted. When you’re giving your mind a rest, truly give it a rest. The updates, highlights, and results will be there when you check back.
Practice Mindfulness to Stay Present
Photo by Katerina May on UnsplashWhen anxiety takes over, overthinking about best or worst-case scenarios is a recipe for mental health disaster. Instead, keep yourself grounded in the present and turn to mindfulness exercises when you feel that your mind is about to reel. Try a simple breathing exercise by inhaling deeply through your nose, holding for a few seconds, and slowly exhaling through your mouth. Repeat until you feel more centered. You can also try the “5-4-3-2-1” technique: look around and name five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This brings you back to the present and helps calm your mind.
Connect with Others for Support
Photo by Joseph Pearson on UnsplashSometimes, waiting is easier when you don’t do it alone. Reach out to friends, family, or online communities who are also riding out the election night tension. Even a quick text or group chat can remind you that you’re not alone and that others are feeling the same uncertainty. You could even set up a virtual “watch party” or check in with friends at set times. Knowing others are sharing the experience can make it feel less isolating and give you a sense of togetherness—even if it’s from a distance.
Move Your Body to Release Tension
Photo by Juan Camilo Navia on UnsplashElection night jitters can build up as physical tension, so get moving! Even a short walk, some stretching, or a few minutes of dancing in your living room can help release the nervous energy. Movement helps lower stress hormones and can be a great way to channel all that restless energy into something good for your body.
Remind Yourself That We’re All in This Together
Photo by Hannah Busing on UnsplashIt’s easy to feel overwhelmed while waiting for election results but remember—you’re not the only one. Millions of people are feeling the same anticipation, hope, and worry. Whether you’re facing the unknown with family, friends, or an entire nation of strangers, we’re all in this together. Just knowing that we’re all navigating this challenging time can be a powerful comfort.
Taking care of yourself isn’t just okay—it’s necessary. Remember to take breaks, keep things light, and prioritize your well-being while you wait for the results. However the 2024 Elections unfold, we will all get through it together.
- Journal Your Way to Inner Peace: Here's How ›
- As a Black and Latinx Voter, I Won’t Take This Election for Granted ›
Constant Fatigue—No Matter How Much You Sleep
Photo by Stacey Koenitz on UnsplashSure, life gets busy, and everyone’s tired now and then. But if you feel drained 24/7, even after a full night’s rest, that could be more than just a hectic schedule. Depression often leaves people feeling physically exhausted because it affects their energy levels and motivation. So, if you’re waking up feeling like you’ve run a marathon before even getting out of bed, it might be time to check in with yourself.
Losing Interest in Hobbies You Once Loved
Photo by Joshua Rawson-Harris on UnsplashWe all go through phases where we get bored of things, but if you’ve lost interest in hobbies or activities that used to light you up, it could be a sign of something deeper. Whether it’s painting, gaming, reading, working out, or hanging out with friends, losing your passion for things you used to enjoy is one of the most common signs of depression.
Irritability Over the Smallest Things
Photo by Guillermo Diaz on UnsplashEver find yourself snapping at people or getting overly frustrated by tiny annoyances? Like when someone leaves the cap off the toothpaste, and it sends you into a rage? Depression doesn’t always show up as sadness, that’s one big misconception. For some people, it manifests as irritability and frustration over the little things or complete apathy. If your patience feels paper-thin lately, it might be time to check in with your mental health.
Struggling to Make Decisions—Even Simple Ones
Photo by On Shot
We’re not talking about big life decisions here; we mean the small, everyday ones. Things like deciding what to eat for lunch or what to wear in the morning can feel overwhelming when you're dealing with depression. If even the simplest choices are stressing you out, it could be more than just indecisiveness.
Feeling Numb or Emotionally Detached
Photo by Tiago Bandeira on Unsplash
Sometimes, depression doesn’t feel like sadness—it feels like nothing at all. If you’ve found yourself feeling emotionally checked out or disconnected from the world around you, that sense of numbness could be depression. It’s as if nothing moves you anymore, and you’re just going through the motions. If that rings a bell, it’s very important to set your strategies in motion. If you don’t have strategies or tools to manage depression, it won’t hurt to get help with that.
Eating Too Much or Not Enough
Photo by Samuel Ramos on UnsplashChanges in appetite are another sneaky sign of depression. Some people turn to food for comfort and eat way more than usual, while others lose interest in eating altogether. If you’ve noticed a significant shift in your eating habits—whether you’re eating more to cope or barely eating at all—it might be time to reflect on what’s really going on beneath the surface.
Sleeping Too Much or Struggling to Sleep at All
Photo by Solving Healthcare on UnsplashDepression can mess with your sleep in two very different ways. For some, it leads to sleeping all the time—napping during the day and still feeling exhausted. For others, it’s the complete opposite: tossing and turning all night and waking up feeling even more exhausted. Either way, if your sleep routine has gone haywire, it could be a red flag for depression.
Avoiding Social Situations
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on UnsplashIf you’ve been canceling plans more often than not, or finding excuses to skip out on social gatherings, you might chalk it up to being introverted or just needing some alone time. But if this behavior is new or getting more frequent, it could be depression trying to isolate you. Depression can make you feel like you don’t have the energy or desire to be around others, even when you know it could make you feel better. So it’s essential to check in with yourself and really ask yourself why you’re avoiding social situations.
Struggling to Focus or Remember Things
Photo by Lilly Rum on UnsplashEver have days where you can’t concentrate on anything, or you keep forgetting what you were just talking about? Depression can affect your cognitive abilities, making it hard to focus or remember things. It’s like your brain is in a fog, and no amount of coffee seems to help. If you find yourself constantly zoning out or forgetting details, it could be a sign your mental health needs some attention.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Guilt or Worthlessness
Photo by energepic.com
It’s normal to feel guilty sometimes about one thing or another. At the end of the day, we all make mistakes, but depression can make guilt and feelings of worthlessness overwhelming, and make them come out of nowhere. You might start feeling like you’re a burden to others or that you’re not good enough, even if there’s no real reason to feel that way. These thoughts are heavy and persistent, and they can weigh you down more than you realize. If that’s happening to you, leaning on your support system is key to helping yourself stay grounded in reality instead of dwelling on what your depression may be telling you.
If any of these behaviors resonate with you, know that you’re not alone and it’s okay to ask for help. Depression shows up in different ways for everyone, and recognizing the signs is the first step in taking action. Whether it’s talking to a therapist, reaching out to friends, or just giving yourself some extra care, do what you need to do to nurture your mental health.
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Chamomile for Soothing
Photo by Irene Ivantsova on UnsplashFeeling stressed? Have an upset stomach? Need help falling asleep? Manzanilla tea has your back. Chamomile is one of the most widely used herbal remedies in Latinx households, known for its calming properties. Abuelas across Latin America have been offering it as a solution for just about everything—whether you’re dealing with anxiety, indigestion, or even teething pain for babies. Its gentle, soothing nature makes it a go-to remedy that can be used for both the body and mind.
Aloe Vera for… Almost Anything
Photo by Sincerely Media on UnsplashIf you’ve ever been sunburned, you might’ve had someone in your family cut a thick, gooey leaf off an aloe vera plant to rub directly onto your skin. Sábila, or aloe vera, is known for its healing properties, especially when it comes to burns, cuts, and irritated skin. But it’s not just for topical use—some Latinx families even drink the juice of the plant (though we don’t recommend trying that without checking with a pro first!). Aloe vera is a staple in many homes, acting as a natural, go-to healer for anything from acne to inflammation.
Peppermint for Stomach Problems
Image from pxhere.com
Got a stomachache? Feeling nauseous? Your tía will likely offer you a cup of yerba buena tea before reaching for anything in the medicine cabinet. This peppermint-based remedy has been used for generations to help with digestion and relieve bloating. In addition to being a cure for stomach woes, yerba buena is also said to help with headaches and colds. It’s one of those “all-purpose” herbs you’ll find in almost any Latinx household, perfect for soothing whatever’s troubling you.
Rue for Pain and Indigestion
Image from pxhere.com
Rue, or ruda, is a plant that carries both medicinal and spiritual significance in many Latinx communities. It’s commonly used to ward off negative energy and cleanse the home, often found hanging in doorways or windows to protect against the “evil eye” (mal de ojo). But ruda also has some physical healing properties—used in teas or compresses, it’s said to help with menstrual cramps, indigestion, and even arthritis. Just be careful with how it’s used, as it’s a powerful herb with strong effects.
Eucalyptus for Colds and Congestion
Photo by Alex Lvrs on UnsplashWhenever you have a cold or feel congested and nothing seems to help, eucalyptus can be a lifesaver. Whether used in teas or as an essential oil in steam baths, eucalyptus is known for opening up the sinuses and helping with respiratory issues. In many Latinx homes, you’ll find eucalyptus leaves tied together and hung in the shower to release their soothing scent, turning a regular hot shower into an herbal sauna that helps you breathe easier.
Prickly Pear Cactus for Blood Sugar Control and More
Photo by shraga kopstein on UnsplashNopal or prickly pear cactus is more than just a healthy side dish—it’s a long-standing herbal remedy used for a variety of health issues. This cactus, often chopped and cooked in traditional dishes, is believed to help control blood sugar, aid digestion, and reduce inflammation. Some people even apply it to their skin to help with wounds and burns. Nopal is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a go-to remedy for boosting overall health in Latinx communities.
Hibiscus for Heart Health and Digestion
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on UnsplashIf you’ve ever sipped on a tangy glass of agua de Jamaica, you’re already familiar with the refreshing taste of hibiscus. But did you know it’s also a traditional remedy with powerful health benefits? Flor de Jamaica is known for helping to lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and aid digestion. This vibrant red flower is packed with antioxidants and is often used to treat colds and fevers. In addition to its medicinal properties, it’s a delicious way to stay hydrated and healthy, especially during hot summer days.
Lemon Balm for Anxiety
Photo by Sebbi Strauch on UnsplashLemon balm, or toronjil, is another favorite in the Latinx herbal arsenal, especially when it comes to calming the nerves. Often brewed as a tea, it’s used to ease anxiety, reduce stress, and help with sleep troubles. But its uses don’t stop there—toronjil is also said to help with digestion, headaches, and even cold sores. If you’re ever feeling jittery or under the weather, a warm cup of toronjil tea might be just what you need to feel more balanced.
Oregano for Flu Symptoms
Photo by Nikolett Emmert on UnsplashOregano isn’t just for seasoning your favorite dishes—it’s a potent medicinal herb in Latinx culture. When steeped into a tea, oregano helps soothe sore throats, coughs, and other cold symptoms. It’s packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial properties, making it a natural remedy for respiratory issues. Plus, it’s easy to find right in your kitchen! Whether you’re adding it to soup or brewing it in tea, oregano is an herbal powerhouse that can help keep you feeling your best.
Cinnamon for Circulation, Inflammation, and Blood Sugar Control
Photo by Rens D on UnsplashIn Latinx culture, cinnamon isn’t just a spice for desserts—it’s also a warming herbal remedy used to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and even regulate blood sugar. Many families brew canela into a fragrant tea to soothe cold symptoms, especially sore throats and congestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a go-to remedy for aches and pains, while its sweet, comforting taste makes it a favorite home remedy that’s as delicious as it is healing.
Passed down from generation to generation, these remedies are often shared with love and care in Latino families. Next time you’re feeling a little off, consider reaching for one of these time-tested remedies. They’ve been soothing, healing, and comforting for centuries—and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon!
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
