This page is for volunteers and is for advice and guidance only. If you feel your volunteering is being impacted by your health and wellbeing please contact your project lead. If you need urgent support with your mental health, call the NHS’s helpline on 111 or Samaritans on 116 123.

The upcoming General Election on 4 July may lead to you feeling a range of emotions, both good and bad. It is important if you are experiencing any negative feelings to prioritise your mental health and remember you are not the only one and it’s OK to have those feelings.

We understand that the topics discussed and opinions expressed may cause anxiety for volunteers. With heightened political activity and constant news, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are 10 top tips, plus resources from other organisations, to help manage your mental health during this time.

10 Top Tips

1. Share Your Worries – If the news has upset you, talk to someone you trust about it. Sharing your concerns can be very comforting. 
2. Acknowledge Your Feelings – It’s normal to feel sad, worried, or angry. Recognise that these emotions are valid and you’re not alone in feeling them. 
3. Limit News Consumption – Stay informed but try to limit your news consumption to specific times of the day. Choose reliable sources to avoid misinformation and reduce anxiety. 
4. Engage in Respectful Discussions – Political discussions can be healthy, but always engage respectfully. Have meaningful conversations with those who have different viewpoints, and step back if it becomes too stressful. 
5. Do What Makes You Happy – Engage in activities that bring you joy, like watching your favourite film, walking your dog, or reading a good book. 
6. Balance Your News Intake – After reading a sad story, balance it by reading something positive before bed to maintain a healthier outlook. 
7. Control Social Media Use – Social media can be stressful, especially during election times. Limit your time online and follow accounts that provide balanced information. 
8. Stay Present – Focus on staying present despite the constant stream of notifications. Practice mindfulness to stay grounded and reduce anxiety. 
9. Set Boundaries – Create boundaries for your device time, silence non-essential notifications, and develop routines that allow for time away from screens. 
10. Seek Professional Help If Needed – If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek help from a therapist, counsellor, or GP. Mental health helplines are also available for immediate support.