We recognize that the election season may be particularly challenging for many of us on campus. Here are some ideas for how to manage election-related stress and foster your resilience.
Ahead of important elections, many people can experience significant amounts of stress in their lives.
In the current socio-economic climate, with social injustices and structural racism highlighted so clearly, many people are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, and at times, helpless. We recognize that the election season may be particularly challenging for many of us on campus. Those who identify with historically marginalized communities may be bearing the weight of these challenges most acutely.
CCPS is committed to actively improving the mental health and well-being of our university community and creating opportunities to practice empathy and compassion towards each other.
Ideas to manage election-related stress and foster your resilience
Avoid dwelling on things you can’t control
When uncertainty strikes, many people immediately imagine worst-case scenarios. Break the habit of ruminating on bad outcomes by focusing on what you can control.
Spend time doing an activity you enjoy
Find an activity that you enjoy and spend time doing it. Consider activities such as being in nature, engaging in art projects, reading something fun, watching funny videos, and listening to music.
Get involved
Get involved in issues that are meaningful to you. Consider advocacy and community involvement in ways that fit you and for which you have time.
Unplug
If following the news, watching the debates, or scrolling through social media is causing you stress, limit your media consumption. Permit yourself to take a break from the news when you are feeling particularly stressed.
Connect
Engage with supportive friends and allies. Talk about current issues, if needed, but be aware of when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Be present
Recognize your feelings and reactions and permit yourself to feel the way you do. Although avoiding can be useful at times, ignoring strong emotions can have a negative impact.
Refuel
Don’t forget to take care of yourself before, during, and after the election. Here are some ideas: Take deep breaths, stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, practice mindfulness, eat nutritious meals, and watch your caffeine intake.
Stay active
What type of movement do you enjoy? Moving helps us release the energy we experience when we feel stressed. Move a little every day. Try stretching, taking a walk, dancing, etc.
Practice positive psychology
Seek out positive stories and news. It’s an important reminder of the positive things in life and the strength of the human spirit. Practice gratitude for the things and the people in your life you feel thankful for.
Reach out for support
Let’s Talk sessions with a CCPS counselors are available for full-time Washington University students.
Additional support resources
CCPS offers free counseling appointments to all full-time Wash U students regardless of insurance. Please call 314-935-6695 if your concern is urgent.
For after-hours support, please download the Timely Care app and follow the instructions to make an appointment.
TAO is an online library of engaging, interactive programs that help you manage feelings of stress and anxiety during these times. All WashU students have access to this resource at no cost.
*Adapted with permission from UC Berkeley University Health Services