Vote for Your Health

By Councilman Tony Forrester, Ph.D., R.N.

Well, it’s finally here – election year 2016 . . . and the election debates are well underway! Perhaps, in your workplace, school, church, or just over your backyard fence, you have already been engaged in passionate conversations about the important political, policy and social issues being discussed by the candidates and others! Whatever your political beliefs, this is the time for community engagement!

Did you know that voting for your favorite candidate may also be a vote for your good health? It’s true! Researchers say that expressing your right to vote may help promote good mental and physical health – and, the research evidence even indicates that some may benefit from voting more than others. For example, in a close election, you may get a greater sense of being able to actually make a difference just by voting. This sense of making a difference, in some ways, transforms the act of voting into one that is more like the act of political activism or even protest. When we feel that we are doing something that can make our lives better, we are benefitted psychologically.

Now, of course, simply voting won’t improve our cholesterol level or lower our blood pressure, but part of overall good health is learning how we can empower ourselves so that we can exercise some control over things in our lives that really are under our control, like voting. Studies show that voting may reduce psychological stress and other mental health problems related to being economically, politically, or socially disadvantaged. Other studies have shown that being involved in our community, engaged in the political process, and voting can reduce the risk of future psychological problems, especially in those who have had problems with depression.

Our children and adolescents also benefit when we vote. They can discuss political issues and become more active, engaged citizens. Children who are more engaged in their community are less likely to experiment with risky behaviors, including drugs and violence. When parents and other adults vote and share their political views with young people, they model citizenship and the critical thinking and analytic decision-making that we encourage in young people growing up in our community. So, Califon neighbors, let’s engage in our community, discuss the compelling issues of the day and . . . get out there and vote!

Here’s to a happy, healthy 2016!

Last modified: January 11, 2016