Election anxiety increases in students

The American Psychological Association defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure.” 

“Anxiety in general can arise from financial stress, abrupt changes in our lives, various hardships, demands or expectations, which are out of our control,” said UHCL psychologist Shavonne Fuller. “With everything that’s happened during these last few years with immigration laws, racial injustice and unrest, policy changes that impact our most vulnerable populations, among other factors, it makes it quite challenging not to experience some form of anxiety.”

Anxiety arises during the election season for a variety of reasons. One reason why some students feel anxious is because they are voting for the first time. 

“I suffer from anxiety because this will be my first time voting,” said Jocelyn Smith, psychology major. 

Students have limited time to research politicians’ policies. 

“I wish there were easier methods of voting and more information given to people about the ballot,” said Jacq Garcia, studio arts major. “I wish voting was publicized more because election information is not given out and people are not as informed as possible when voting.” 

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic contributes to anxiety in students this election season. Per Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s order, it is not mandatory for people to wear masks when voting. 

“This election is in the middle of a pandemic,” Smith said. “So it’s even scarier to go out and vote knowing people won’t be required to wear masks; however, I am getting over it because I don’t want to be complacent and complain later about not voicing my opinion and not voting when it matters most.”

There are students who fear the potential outcomes and face uncertainty when voting. 

“Even though it is great that more people are voting, it still does not get rid of the fact that we may not see a change in the presidency position,”  said Toyin Ayilara, industrial/organizational psychology major.

One student discussed the importance of voting despite the anxiety and fears that arise from the election. 

“This election has a bigger movement because of the Black Lives Matter movement, transgender rights and other political aspects that will affect the next four years,” Smith said. 

There are many questions that arise during an election season. Questions about who will win, how policies and laws will impact one’s family and whether one’s voice will be heard.

“At this point, especially in the pandemic, we need a leader, not someone who will reassure us the pandemic is not a big deal and many months later continue to downplay it as if he cares,” Ayilara said. “I know my vote will count, but I am not sure if that will be enough.” 

Students can manage anxiety during election season by reaching out to loved ones, minimizing social media use and researching different websites that align with their political views. 

“I am coping with election anxiety by staying off social media, not watching the presidential and vice-presidential debates and hanging around residents in Hunter Hall,” Ayilara said.  

Other recommended coping strategies include intentional self-care, therapy, engaging in activities and voicing concerns and opinions. UHCL Counseling Services offers various self-help resources to manage election anxiety, including guided imagery and visualization and the Welltrack app.

Counseling Services offers individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy services to all enrolled UHCL students. 

“We have outreaches focusing on mindfulness, relaxation and learning skills on how to manage and tolerate stress, because a lot of times that is a concern for students during election season,” Fuller said.  

For additional resources or to make a counseling appointment, visit the Counseling Services website or call 281-283-2580.