By Suleman Chitera

Lilongwe, Malawi – Mental health expert Chiwoza Bandawe has advised individuals who lost in the 2025 Malawi general elections to stop living in denial and seek professional support if they are experiencing psychological distress.

Bandawe acknowledged that feeling hurt after losing an election is natural but stressed the importance of moving forward. “It is understandable to feel disappointed when one loses an election,” Bandawe said. “However, it is crucial to think beyond the elections, stop following election updates, and temporarily take a break from social media.”BMTV says hours remaining for Mutharika to be guarded by MDF

The mental health specialist emphasized that prolonged denial or obsessive focus on election results can lead to stress, depression, and other psychological challenges. He encouraged affected individuals to consult mental health professionals for guidance and support. “Mental health experts play a vital role in helping people navigate the emotional impact of losing an election,” Bandawe added.

Experts say that managing post-election stress involves maintaining a healthy routine, engaging in physical activity, and seeking counseling if needed. They also recommend limiting exposure to social media and news updates, which can exacerbate feelings of frustration and disappointment.

This advice comes as Malawians continue to process the outcomes of the 2025 elections, highlighting the need for mental health awareness during politically charged periods.

Key Takeaways for Election Losers:

Accept the election outcome instead of living in denial.

Limit exposure to election news and social media.

Seek professional help for stress or depression.

Focus on personal well-being and future goals.

By prioritizing mental health, election losers can better manage disappointment and regain emotional balance, ensuring that temporary setbacks do not affect long-term well-being.