How to Cope with Election-Related Stress
Ahead of important elections, US adults 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.
UHS is committed to improving the UC Berkeley community's mental health and well-being and creating opportunities to practice empathy and compassion towards each other.
Below are some ideas on how to manage election-related stress:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Get involved: Get involved in issues that are meaningful to you. Consider advocacy and community involvement in ways that fit you.
- Connect with others: Engage with supportive friends and allies. Talk about current issues, if needed, but be aware of when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Reflect & Feel: It's hard to cope with difficult emotions if you don't acknowledge them. 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. Cope by talking, exercising, writing, etc.
- Practice non-judgment: Try not to judge your emotions or to judge others. Remember that we are all different and need different things to self-soothe.
- 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 an arts and crafts project, reading something fun, baking, playing a game, and listening to music.
- Move your body: 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: Appointments with UHS mental health counselors are available for UC Berkeley students.
Download and view the PDF version of these election self-care tips.