How Clinton Supporters Can Deal With Post-Election Devastation
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Emotions are high following the historic election of President-Elect Donald Trump. Some people are very happy and relieved, while others are very depressed and scared.
In spite of her positive message, Hillary Clinton was forced to concede and many of her supporters are devastated.
"I think they're confused," said Dr. Richard Summers of Penn Medicine. Dr. Summers says that among the many emotions voters are feeling, shock was probably first as Trump was never expected to win big.
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"There's a kind of strong, emotional processing element to this," Dr. Summers explained.
Trump supporters are celebrating the unexpected win, while Clinton's people are grieving and protesting, wondering what Trump will do to American in spite of his measured words. "We can work together and unify our great country," Trump said.
Dr. Summers says the uncertainty and intense emotional reactions will probably ease over time as most people have good coping skills.
"We're actually, naturally very resilient," he said. "We're built to deal with all kinds of extremely stressful and traumatic experiences."
He says the best way to deal with emotional upheaval is to communicate feelings and stay close to family and friends.
Summers said that certain people will probably have a harder time dealing with election emotions including immigrants, women who have been abused and people already struggling with depression and anxiety.
