What to do with Increased Stress from the Election

By India Bennett

Donald Trump was elected the 47th President of the United States. Recent study shows stress is up due to this.

According to the American Psychological Association’s 2024 Stress in America Survey, 77% of U.S. adults reported significant stress over the nation’s future. For many, the election results amplified those concerns.

“Disappointed: 100% disappointed,” said Chelsea Robinson, College of Southern Nevada student, when asked how she felt about the results. “I was very much disappointed but not surprised at all.”

The election’s implications hit close to home. “I have a lot of undocumented family and friends that are now relying on me a little bit more, so I could see that weighing on my conscience,” Robinson shared.

Phoenix Adamson, CSN student, said, “I actually hoped a lot of people wouldn’t have voted for the opposing team, and it wasn’t like that.”

Elevated stress levels among students following sociopolitical events are not uncommon.  A 2023 study published in the “Journal of Comprehensive Psych Neuroendocrinology”found that sociopolitical stress among students has been severely elevated in recent years.

CSN Psychology Professor Dr. Andrea Brown, who teaches Women’s Studies 113: Gender, Race and Class, offered strategies for students grappling with post-election stress. “We have to find this balance between attending to our disappointment and those negative feelings, but not losing sight of the strength and resilience that make us who we are.”

Dr. Brown encouraged students to lean into spiritual or mindfulness practices. “Gratitude is powerful. We can focus all day on what’s wrong, but it helps to shift our thinking and acknowledge what’s right.” She also emphasized the importance of setting boundaries, advising students to, “Protect your peace. You don’t have to engage in every conversation about politics, especially if it’s going to make you feel worse.”

According to “Psychology Today”, unaddressed stress can lead to long term mental-health consequences. Dr. Brown’s advice highlights the importance of addressing stress early and effectively to mitigate its impact.

CSN is committed to supporting students’ mental health through its Counseling and Psychological Services. CAPS offers free and confidential therapy sessions, workshops and events in collaboration with campus organizations like the Black Student Union and the Gender and Sexuality Alliance.

“CAPS is participating in events hosted by many CSN programs and clubs,” said Dr. Debra Morton, CSN interim director of Disability Resources. Morton encouraged students to take advantage of these resources, emphasizing that help is readily available for those who need it.

Change, while inevitable, is challenging. CSN Acting President Dr. Bill Kibler reminds students to focus on what they can control. “The most important thing for any student feeling nervous or stressed is to talk about it. Share your concerns with friends, faculty or professionals,” he said.

Dr. Kibler acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding potential changes such as discussions about the Department of Education, but reassured students that the impact would likely be minimal. “I don’t see programs like Pell Grants, TRIO programs or federal financial aid going away. They’re essential to supporting students, and even a significant change in administration wouldn’t eliminate them.”

He added, “This isn’t the first time we’ve had an administration promising big changes. There are checks and balances, and things often stabilize over time. Change is hard, but it’s a constant. Focus on what you can control.”

While the election’s outcome has caused stress for many students, there are tools, resources and communities at CSN to help navigate these challenges.

“Even if the circumstances weren’t what you wanted, just take a breath and slow down,” Robinson said, encouraging students to focus on moving forward.

Dr. Brown echoed this sentiment, “Remember our rich history and legacy, this is not the time to have a pity party. Tend to your feelings, then get back into action.”

Focusing on self-care, mindfulness, and seeking support can foster resilience and create a sense of belonging during uncertain times.

“We’re here to support students, help them thrive and enable them to achieve their goals,” Dr. Kibler said.