Just like the rest of 2020, we're having an unprecedented Election Day. 

Election Day 2020 could really be more like election week (or, God forbid, election month), thanks to the large number of mail-in ballots cast because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It's unlikely we'll be able to call a winner anytime soon in the presidential race between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. And beyond the time it takes to count the ballots, legal battles could follow results – lawyers have already lined up across the nation to challenge voting rules and individual votes.

The 2020 election may cause more stress than elections usually do. Here's how to cope.

It is, quite frankly, overwhelming just to vote this year, let alone follow every election update and news development. We want to help you take care of your mental health while you stay informed. 

We offer some wisdom, distractions and comfort in what is going to be a stressful week for everyone. 

Be patient, if you can…

We live in an impatient society. We want everything right now (two-day shipping! instant downloads!) and having to wait longer to find out the results of what has felt like an extra-long election cycle can be stressful. 

But preparing yourself for a long haul can help make this week easier. As USA TODAY Editor-in-Chief Nicole Carroll put it, "The number of mail-in and absentee ballots in many states means counting could go on for days. The delay doesn't mean there is a problem. It means the system is working, and states are ensuring every ballot is counted."

Limit your news consumption to what you need to know

You don't need to be glued to your phone or TV screen to ensure you hear important election news. 

"There is a fine line between being an informed citizen and making yourself crazy with all the headlines and social media conversations," says Dr. Linda Anegawa, a primary care physician with virtual health platform PlushCare. "These activities can become not only a time suck, but it can drain your emotional energy."

If you aren't learning anything new and you are feeling anxious, it's probably a sign you need a break. 

Do something else

It's OK to spend time this week taking care of your mental health. In fact, it's extra-important to do so when the news is stressful. 

"These are challenging times for us all, so it’s critical that we care for our emotional and physical health more than ever," says Anegawa. "It's important that we all fortify ourselves in every sense of the word." 

Mediation, mindfulness, distraction and entertainment can help us relaxk. Here are some ways you might channel your jittery energy into a non-election activity: 

You can watch one of the best shows on Netflix. Or Hulu. Or Amazon. Or HBO Max. Or Peacock. There is so much TV at your fingertips ready for a distracting binge-watch. 

If you would rather watch a movie than commit to a TV show, here are film critic Brian Truitt's favorites from 2020 (so far). For a kid-friendly option, try one of these 25 great movies. 

Still need a movie? Try one of our 100 favorites. There's bound to be one on the list that you'll love. 

Or maybe you're more of a reader. There's nothing like curling up with a good book. Try downloading one of these top 20 for fall.

Sam Smith, Bon Jovi and Dolly Parton all released new music in October. Spend some time zoning out with your headphones.

Start your holiday shopping. There are plenty of sales already starting, but may we suggest one of these 15 products that will help with stress relief. Maybe you need them for yourself. Maybe you need them right now. 

If you don’t want to spend money right now, you could also try your hand at DIYing some of these fall fashion trends at home without shopping.

Plan your safe Thanksgiving. Dr. Anthony Fauci and other medical experts have cautioned against big family get-togethers, but that doesn't mean Thanksgiving won't be festive. Special menus (maybe try Cornish game hens instead of a turkey), Zoom calls with your family, crafts and more can make your Thanksgiving special. 

Stress bake. It's time-consuming, fun and oh-so-tasty. We have recipes for beginners, moderate bakers and experts here. And if you are interested in bread and want it fast, here are some bread recipes that don't require yeast.  

Meditate. If you've never tried meditation before, here are some tips for getting started. 

We recently spoke to some astronauts about how they handle anxiety and isolation. Here are five tips they have for taking care of your mental health. 

Sleep. It's hard enough to adjust to coming off daylight saving time without staying up too late.

2020 has been trying for all of us. Do whatever you can to stay well during this crazy week in this crazy year. And if you need more support, USA TODAY's newsletter Staying Apart, Together is dedicated to helping you cope with the pandemic and other stressors in your life. It always has a cute pet picture. You can sign up here.

And don't worry, the election will still be there when you turn back to the news. Follow USA TODAY's coverage for accurate, up-to-date results and analysis. 

Published first on USA TODAY

The views expressed in this article intend to highlight alternative studies and induce conversation. They are the views of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Technorella, and are for informational purposes only, even if and to the extent that this article features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.