Anyone who owns a cellphone or has consumed any form of media over the last several months understands how difficult it can be to escape election news.

Whether a person chooses to pay close attention to that noise is his or her prerogative, but prior research signals the lead up to an election takes a toll on the majority of people in the country.

According a recent survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, nearly 7 in every 10 adults said this year’s U.S. presidential election has been a significant source of stress in their lives.

“I think, not only do people feel strongly about the election, but it’s important to remember none of us are in a vacuum here,” said Alicia Kaplan, psychiatrist and medical director for the Center for Adult Anxiety and OCD within Allegheny Health Network’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Institute. “It’s a collective experience. We can feel other people’s anxiety, even family members who are all voting for the same candidate.”

While the choice between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is binary, there are plenty of unknowns that can cause a great deal of anxiety.

Political issues have the ability to consume an exorbitant amount of time and energy for everyday Americans if they allow it.

“Since the pandemic, there’s been increased stress and anxiety for a lot of people,” Kaplan said. “A lot of people have been feeling some of that uncertainty. Certainly this is an important election for a lot of people, and I think these overwhelming feelings and lack of control can be contagious. People can only really control what they do and accept there are going to be things out of their control.”

Kaplan recommends people step away from politics when necessary to rein in anxiety and decompress. Practicing mindfulness can look different depending on the person.

“What cuts down on our stress is a little unique for everyone,” she said. “Some people it’s exercise, some people it’s going out with a friend and getting a cup of coffee or listening to a podcast that has nothing to do with politics. We all have different things that help de-stress us.

“What I’ve seen that’s helpful is to not stay alone with your feelings and talk to a loved one or someone you respect. I’ve had people really value being listened to, and we can’t underestimate that.”

Some local groups have organized events to help people reflect on what can be a difficult election season.

The Butler Clergy Network will hold “A Time for Peace” on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Butler YWCA on Cunningham Street. All are welcome to attend the session, which will include music, prayers and readings from many denominations.

“We are aware there is a great deal of stress at this time, and there will be a great deal of stress following the election no matter who wins,” said Mary Kitchen, preacher at White Oak Springs Presbyterian Church and Faith United Presbyterian Church. “Our goal is to give people a safe and quiet place to come to reflect and pray and find some respite from the stress of this time.”