SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS — Just days after election results were announced, support groups are opening their doors to help individuals process their emotions.
I sat down with the Phoenix Center Executive Director, Jonna Cooley, and she told me their LGBTQ post-election support group saw over 90 individuals.
“There was a wide range of emotions, including anger, sadness and fear,” Cooley said “… Those were probably the main ones.”
Cooley said despite the election results, the center will continue to advocate for LGBTQ safety.
“We will certainly keep an eye on any potential changes or issues that might arise,” Cooley said. “We need to engage and educate the community. Educate and work with our elected officials.”
Cooley added that the Phoenix Center will continue to be a safe space for the LGBTQ community and anyone who needs support.
“The groups that we offer allow people to come together to discuss issues that they have in common,” Cooley said. “Or to meet other people that are like-minded, that are dealing with similar situations.”
Clinical Psychologist, William Moredock, said if individuals are feeling post-election anxiety, they should take a break from social platforms.
“Control what you can control and let go of the rest,” Moredock said. “You can’t control the outcome of an election, but you can control what you do going forward.”
Cooley said it’s important for people to know that they are not alone during this time, and the Phoenix Center will always be a safe space.
Moredock added that individuals should focus on their mental health, so it doesn’t lead to long-term effects.
