TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- As the presidential election gets closer, people are hearing more and more from the two main candidates -- as well as from those strongly supporting and opposing them.
It can lead to what's called "voter fatigue." That's when people become overwhelmed and tired of hearing and seeing political content.
Mental health experts predict the level of intensity will only get higher as the big day approaches, but the best way to deal with it is to try to distance yourself from political environments.
Family therapist Jane Marks says this election in particular is bringing out very strong opinions, pitting friends against each other in terms of whom they support.
She says even teenagers are getting fired up about the election, with so much content and chatter on social media.
Marks suggests taking what she calls "an emotional rest," taking breaks from social media and calmly reacting to situations where politics becomes the main topic.
"Stay away from political confrontation," Marks said. "It just doesn't serve you. If you have a person that you encounter that just feels so strongly, you simply tell that person, 'You know, you have a point.' Not that you agree with that point -- but you can at least acknowledge the fact that they have a point of view and then walk from it."
Marks says people who are prone to irritability, anxiety and depression can get very passionate with their political views.
She says the election can polarize people, and it's best to avoid negative encounters that don't end in a good place.
