If you’re beginning to feel as though the stakes in this year’s elections are unusually high, you are not alone. Even a cursory glance at newspaper opinion pages or social media feeds will tell you there are strong feelings on many important issues — and plenty of people believe they must weigh in on the candidates who might address those issues.

Here’s the problem. When it really counts — Election Day — those opinion pieces or social media posts will not move the needle. Your vote will; and primary elections are closer than you might think.

According to the West Virginia Secretary of State’s office, the deadline to register in time to vote in the primary is April 21. Early in-person voting will take place April 29 to May 9, the deadline for absentee ballot applications is May 6, and primary election day is May 12.

Ohio’s Secretary of State’s office says the deadline to register in time to vote in the primary is April 6. Early in-person voting will take place April 7 to May 3, the deadline for absentee ballot applications is April 28, and primary election day is May 5.

Do not miss your opportunity to add your voice to the decisions being made in May. It’s a good idea now to be sure you are registered and know your polling place. West Virginians can do so here: https://apps.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/AmIRegisteredToVote. Ohioans can check here: https://voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/voterlookup.aspx.

And if you are eligible but not yet registered, and understand how important it is to fulfill your responsibility to vote, there are online options in addition to several in-person options in your communities, such as local elections offices, state motor vehicles offices and other local organizations. For the West Virginia online option, head to https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing; Ohioans can register here: https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/.

Once you are registered, check your polling place and put a reminder to vote on your calendar. There is one more task: Be absolutely certain you know which identifying documents are required before you vote. Online rumors aren’t doing us any favors in that department.

Ohioans can check here: https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/id-requirements/. West Virginians can check here: https://sos.wv.gov/elections/Pages/BeReg.aspx.

Those of you who are already prepared and eager to vote, but who might have family, friends and neighbors who could use a little support, spread the word. In fact, don’t just spread the word, but offer rides or help navigating the process, if someone needs it.

Voting is our chance to make decisions about how our governments are run — and who we trust to run them. No matter how loudly you spout your opinion on any other day, it’s that vote that counts. Don’t wait to make sure you are heard.