Welp... It's November 6th…Now What?

Election season has just come and gone in New York City, and here we are, one day after. The political ads have stopped, but the emotional impact is still settling in. It’s been a whirlwind of debates, emotions, and let’s be real —overwhelming anxiety. For many New Yorkers, it feels like the city is holding its breath, waiting for the dust to settle.

And now, life in NYC goes on. The trains are still packed, the sidewalks are bustling with tourists, and the daily grind hasn’t paused for a second. But beneath it all, many of us are carrying a sense of fatigue and frustration. There’s an unspoken weight in the air. If you’re feeling this way, I want you to know that you’re not alone.

It’s easy to get swept up in the external chaos of the city and lose sight of how we’re actually feeling. Checking in with yourself is crucial during times like this: How are you really doing beyond the political noise and constant hustle of life? Sometimes, the best thing you can do is acknowledge that everything isn’t okay. It’s okay to not be okay.

As a therapist in NYC, I encourage you to take a step back and assess your emotions. If you’re feeling uncertain, disconnected, or even just overwhelmed, that’s perfectly valid. The aftermath of an election can stir up a lot of emotions—disappointment, relief, fear, or even pure exhaustion. Whatever you’re feeling is real, and it deserves attention. Taking time to process is important.

Give yourself permission to not have all the answers. Give yourself permission to enjoy simple pleasures amidst the noise. Turn off the stress for a moment— go for a walk, grab a coffee, or just sit with your feelings. Recognize the emotional toll that the election has taken, and understand that it’s okay to move at your own pace during this uncertain time. We’re not meant to always be “on” in a fast-paced city like NYC.

Maybe today is the day you grab a pint with a friend at happy hour, or attend that comedy show you’ve been putting off. Take a stroll through Prospect Park, or treat yourself to that four-dollar cookie. Whatever small joy feels right in this moment, lean into it. These moments of peace are just as important as processing the big shit.

Remember, amidst the uncertainty of city life and the aftermath of the election, you’re not alone in how you’re feeling. I can tell you that we’re all navigating this together, each at our own pace. Take things one step at a time, and remember that it’s okay to not have it all together right now.