Political engagement is one of the forms of civic engagement that is especially meaningful during a Presidential Election year. At the same time, our political climate can lead to heightened emotions and stress. National and local elections have significant outcomes that affect our lives and the lives of those we care about. The Center for Civic Engagement & Learning is sharing the following tips and resources to support students during this Election season.
Own your feelings
It is okay to feel angry, sad, anxious or whatever you feel. In fact, it’s important not to minimize or dismiss these feelings because they can give you important information about what action steps to take. Believe in your capacity for resilience.
Reach out to friends who would be helpful to share this experience with you. While engaging across difference is important, it's also important to connect with like-minded allies who can create a safe space to share your feelings.
Prepare for a prolonged outcome
Election Day is not “results day.” It takes time to count all the votes and if we don’t know the results within 24 hours, that’s ok. It means the system is working; taking time to count votes will help ensure fair elections in which results are accurately reflected.
Practice being focused on the present. Anxiety about possible future events depletes energy to deal the future when it arrives. Ask yourself if there are any likely future possibilities that you need to plan for. Make time to plan, and then gently shift your focus back to here-and-now.
Be intentional about your news and media consumption
Take breaks to rest and focus on other activities. Limit yourself to a few trusted news sources. Avoid mindless scrolling, as consuming too much news can be counterproductive!
Hold space for dialogue and sharing perspectives
CWRU Sustained Dialogue program to discuss campus, local and national issues of concern, including diversity and inclusion matters.
Enhancing Civility & Connection at CWRU
This initiative aims to create a learning environment where all at CWRU are free to express our views, ask difficult questions and engage in vigorous debate while, at the same time, remaining open to diverse perspectives and ensuring that no member of our community feels devalued or unwelcome. Visit their website to view programs, special events, and course offerings.
Guidelines for post-election dialogue
Visit the University of Binghamton’s website for helpful guidelines to host a post-election dialogue, including potential questions to guide the conversation.
Utilize support services
CWRU University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS) has a very helpful and practical resources for coping with election stress.
If you find that election-related stress creates symptoms of anxiety or depression or begins to negatively affect your work, school, or relationships, UHCS also provides several options to support our students:
- Students experiencing distress or anxiety can access Talk Now (through TimelyCare) for immediate, 24/7 mental health support.
- UHCS also offers same-day and next-day mental health visits during clinic hours, which can be scheduled through myhealthconnect.case.edu. These appointments can be conducted virtually or in person.
- For after-hours support, the counselor on call can be reached at 216.368.5872.
- In case of emergencies, please call 216.368.3333 (on campus) or 911 (off campus). The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also available 24/7 at 988.
For more information and resources check out the 2024 Post-Election Campus Resource And Response Guide developed by the SLSV Coalition and the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge (ALL IN)
Acknowledgements to:
Brandeis University HAWP
University of Michigan University Health & Counseling