In the Spotlight: Managing Stress During the Election

5 Ways to Cope With Election Stress

We know the period leading up to an election can be extremely stressful. Not only is there tension among different communities in our country, but there is also a significant amount of tension among our peers and sometimes even our family members. The pressure this tension puts on us can distract us from our classes, tasks, and well-being. It can often lead to an all-encompassing sense of uncertainty and unease, leaving us with a pit in our stomach. Luckily though, there are a plethora of ways to manage this stress. We’ve put together five tips on coping with election stress that can help make this election season a calmer one. 

Tips for Practicing Self-Care During the Election

1. Make Connection a Priority

Finding time to engage with others is important, whether through lengthy constructive conversations or quick coffee chats. When stressed, it’s easy to isolate oneself and induce a thought spiral. Instead, try to generate meaningful conversations with friends or peers whenever possible. If a conversation feels divisive, it’s okay to step back and take a deep breath. You’re not required to participate in dialogue that makes you uncomfortable—or any conversation. Seek out conversations that lessen your mental load.

2. Maintain Your Normal Routine

Try your best to seek balance. Developing a standard routine and sticking to it can establish order in your life even when things feel out of control. By controlling what you can—specifically your schedule—you can ease some of the stress you feel inside and engage in regular activities that fulfill you.

3. Practice Self-Compassion

It’s okay to admit that you are not okay. Acknowledging how you feel can allow you to feel it even more. Notice how your body reacts to certain conversations or news updates. If you need to take a step back to go on a walk, take a deep breath, or call a family member, do so. Only you know what your mind and body need.

4. Choose Empowering Actions

Your voice matters. Carve out time to empower yourself and others. Register to vote if you’re eligible, help your peers register to vote, contribute to fact-checking, and respectfully spread awareness about topics you’re passionate about. You can make an impact.

5. Unplug

Social media and online forums can generate extreme anxiety. If you feel overwhelmed and overstimulated, it’s okay to log off. Limiting your consumption of information can help you feel more centered and less overloaded. Try to spend time with others and generate meaningful conversations, especially about how you and others feel. It’s as simple as asking, “How are you really?” or “How are you feeling during this stressful time?”

Written by: Chase Klavon, Class of 2025

Resources

Stanford Resources

• Mental Health Resources at Stanford: Your go-to hub for navigating the many mental health and well-being resources at Stanford.
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• TimelyCare: No cost virtual medical and mental health care 24/7, 365 days/year for enrolled students.
• Democracy Hub: Explore upcoming events, educational and engagement opportunities, leading research, and the hundreds of people at Stanford dedicated to civic and democratic efforts.
• StanfordVotes: Engage with campus leadership and other stakeholders to help create a culture of civic engagement on the Farm.
• Voting and Elections Guide: This Voter Information Guide created by Stanford Libraries contains non-partisan resources to help you get registered to vote and get educated about the issues on your ballot.