Politics2016 electionhpvideoMillennials

Why Millennials Should Remember That Their Vote Matters This Election

They make up one-third of eligible voters.
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By 

Front Page Editor, HuffPost

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There are myriad excuses for not voting on Nov. 8, including the time it will supposedly take and the belief that one vote won’t make a difference. But we’re here to dispel those myths and encourage everyone ― especially millennials ― to head to the polls on Election Day. 

Almost one-quarter of Americans ages 18-35 surveyed in one national poll say they’d rather endure a meteor strike than vote in this increasingly nasty election. The problem is, millennials make up almost one-third of eligible voters. 

A new video of “We the Voters,” a series about the importance of political participation, dispels just a few of the popular myths that discourage potential voters from engaging in the political process. 

Check it out above.

The above video is part of "We the Voters," a groundbreaking social impact campaign designed to inspire and activate millions of young Americans through 20 viral films hosted by actors and influencers. The project incorporates real characters, dynamic story lines and celebrity influencers to demystify how the government and elections work and to motivate Americans to seize their power by voting in the 2016 elections. For more information, and to see the rest of the films, visit We the Voters.com.

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Before You Go

Tips For Managing Political Stress
Disconnect when you can.(01 of05)
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You’re probably constantly diving into your device for the latest updates, or getting push notifications every time a candidate steps up to a podium. Because society is dealing with an unprecedented level of technology compared to just four years ago, it’s important to take mindful breaks from it, licensed clinical psychologist Stephanie Smith told The Huffington Post

“Take a break from Facebook, from your TV, from your apps,” she advised. “Unplugging is super important.” (credit:DragonImages via Getty Images)
Remind yourself of the good.(02 of05)
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A little compassion goes a long way. Research shows that generosity is cyclical: Kindness makes you happier, and happiness makes you kind. Try to engage in that behavior when you’re stressed about the negativity of the news. Volunteer at a local charity, like an animal shelter or a food bank.

“There are still a lot of wonderful things happening in the world and people making positive change,” Smith said. “That’s hard to remember when candidates rip each other apart, so actively remind yourself of that.” (credit:Flashpop via Getty Images)
Put everything into perspective.(03 of05)
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Tumultuous periods are scary, but it’s important to maintain a big-picture attitude.

“There have been contentious elections before, and we got thorough them and we will this time, too,” Smith explained. “Perspective is important when it comes to stress.” (credit:Anthony Harvie via Getty Images)
Go out and vote.(04 of05)
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Take control of your stress and make moves by heading to the polls for all elections, big and small.

"In a democracy, a citizen’s voice does matter. By voting, you will hopefully feel you are taking a proactive step and participating in what for many has been a stressful election cycle," the APA advised. (credit:Blend Images - Hill Street Studios via Getty Images)
Seek help if the stress becomes overwhelming.(05 of05)
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If you’re feeling chronic stress — for any reason — it’s always a good idea to check in with a medical professional, Smith says. Excess anxiety can lead to high blood pressure, heart problems and a host of other issues. If your worries seem to spike after watching a debate (whose wouldn’t?) try one of these calming tricks in order to relax. The most important thing is to be in touch with your emotions and be cognizant of when you’re feeling off balance, Smith says. This is especially important during stressful periods like work deadlines, big changes in your personal life and, well, elections. (credit:Dona Monroe via Getty Images)
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