I have been wondering if the media-saturated, lengthy process that occurs before elections might lead to an exaggerated effect once the votes are counted. You have large groups of people thinking about who to vote for, reminded of the pros and cons every day for months. They may begin to think their side will win and doubtless do amazing things for them and the country, while beginning to fear what the other side will do if they win.

Could it be that - although it can possibly lead to more awareness of the issues at stake - the long emotionally activating process and mud-slinging tactics may exaggerate the emotional effects for both the winning and losing sides?

For me, this election cycle has been like watching the last game in a popular sports season. I can imagine one team's supporters beating their chests in triumph while the other deals with genuine grief. However you feel about the political issues themselves, could it be that triumph or grief, and shared group feelings, are also components of your current emotional state? I want to share this because neither 100% blind optimism nor curling up in despair are a good thing - both lead to thinking errors.