As the nation continues to "debate" over who came out on top in the first presidential debate, a local school psychologist is sounding the alarm over the emotional toll the presidential race is taking on students across our area.

"Anxiety levels are increasing, and we're seeing that students are having difficulty sleeping, not wanting to go to school," says Dr. Stacie Danielle Shivers.

Dr. Shivers says students of all ages are experiencing heightened anxiety connected to the deep division and intensity of this year's presidential race.

She is encouraging parents to limit their children's exposure to social media to help alleviate an overconsumption of political messaging.

"I would also recommend encouraging parents have direct chats with their children about how they feel what they are hearing conversations being held around them," she says.

Dr. Shivers says online resources are available for parents to help them navigate when children feel overwhelmed.

Resources: Access Psychology Foundation