A line of people are lining up to vote for the election at the voting booths in the background.
Many people in the United States are ready to vote in the 2024 election. Credit: iStock/Rawpixel

With the 2024 election inching closer and closer, and with two starkly different versions of American government on the ballot, a lot of people can feel overwhelmed and fearful for the future. But even with legitimate reasons to be concerned, it’s still important to take care of yourself.

Although election stress may seem overwhelming, CSUN has various resources that can help students and faculty through these challenging times, said Abram Milton, staff counselor for University Counseling Services. He highlights how CSUN University Counseling Services (UCS) is here for CSUN students who need help dealing with election stress. Milton emphasized how confidentiality is key when speaking to a UCS counselor at CSUN.

“We don’t care about your political views, this is a confidential space where what you say here stays here so you can express yourself,” Milton said.

Know the Signs

The stakes of national elections can make individuals feel powerless, Milton said.
“When people are told to get out and vote, they can feel like their vote doesn’t count, which we know it does, but it can bring on this feeling of helplessness, and that can bring on more stress and hopelessness,” he said.

Other signs of election stress may cause physical reactions like sweatiness, rapid heart rate and overstimulation as well as emotional strain which may result in symptoms such as a lack of focus, isolation and a feeling of helplessness, Milton said.

Take Steps To Protect Your Mental Health

In addition to seeking help at University Counseling Services, counselors also recommend other ways to alleviate election stress. These steps include:

Be present: assess your current thoughts and feelings. Take a moment to examine your thoughts and emotions to confirm or reevaluate them.

Refuel: make sure you are getting plenty of rest. Stay hydrated and make healthy food choices and limit your caffeine intake. These actions can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall health.

Unplug: limit your social media intake to create boundaries to help feel less overwhelmed.

Connect: make time to get together with supportive friends and allies; and then do something that you enjoy to channel your feelings into positive and meaningful activities.

CSUN University Counseling Services’ business hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and counselors are available for regular appointments during this time or for emergency in person visits if the student needs support.. Students can set up an initial evaluation with a counselor by calling: 818-677-2366, option 1. Their crisis hotline is available after hours for immediate help: (818) 677-2366, option 3.

Milton said help is also available through other organizations on campus to help deal with election stress, such as the Student Recreation Center, the Klotz Student Health Center, and many of the other resources provided by the University Student Union. Students are also encouraged to visit the Oasis Wellness Center on campus that has calming resources like nap pods and a mediation center.

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