You may experience an array of emotions like anxiety, anger, feeling overwhelmed or even exhaustion during election season. It can be a really stressful time for you and those around you but it is important to know that it’s okay to seek out support, if needed. Student Health, Counseling, and Well-Being offers resources to help cope with election stress.
Our Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) team is here to support you along the way throughout the election season. You can make an appointment to speak with a therapist by calling 408-554-4501.
If you are an undergraduate student living on campus, you can speak with a Therapist in Residence (TIR). The TIRs offer same day, next day or same week check-in appointments that can be booked through the Student Health Portal.
Here are some mental health tips to cope with the election:
- Be in the moment
We understand that the election can increase anxiety and stress. But it is important to practice mindfulness and to be present in the moment. Give yourself time to pause, feel grounded and be present with your breathing. - Find stress management techniques that work for you
Maybe listening to music works better for you or maybe doing meditation. Gather techniques that work for you so you are ready and prepared when election stress comes.
We offer FREE access to Headspace filled with 1000+ hours of mindfulness content. You may find guided meditations or sleep playlists that work for you. Headspace offers content that helps reduce stress and burnout.
You can also build resilience with Scout. This app offers ways cope with stress, communicate more effectively, and develop a stronger sense of purpose. There are clinically backed and evidence-based activities, lessons and tools to improve mental wellbeing. - Limit your media intake
Set aside time throughout the day to give yourself a media break to avoid checking your for any updates all day long. Set boundaries and be mindful about what information you consume and how much of it. - Seek compassion
Be compassionate towards yourself and others. You can reduce mental and emotional distress by being compassionate towards you and your emotions. There may be those who have a different perspective from you but you can choose to interact with them in a empathetic way. - Connect
Get support and engage with like-minded friends. Be a part of community activities in a positive and meaningful way. It is good during difficult times to find support and be with others who have the same views as you. - Limit substance use
The Wellness Center offers private, judgment-free Wellness Coaching sessions to explore the relationship between one’s substance usage and other aspects of one’s life. During these sessions, you can learn more about harm reduction strategies for moderating substance usage, how you can connect with other students who are sober-curious or in recovery. You can also discuss other topics that contribute to one’s well-being like time management, sleep, navigating social situations and more. - Get adequate sleep
Sleep plays a huge role in your mental health. Getting a good night’s sleep can help you be more alert, have more energy and less stress. It is recommended that adults get about 7 to 9 hours sleep per night for a healthy physical and mental well-being. Limit your screen time before going to bed as this can disrupt your sleep. Try to avoid caffeine later in the day. Exercise can help improve your overall health and your quality of sleep. - Engage in self care
We have put together a list of self-care tips to support you and your mental well-being.
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