In 2020, the American Psychological Association published a survey showing that more than two-thirds of U.S. adults experienced a significant amount of stress ahead of the U.S. presidential election. UHS Mental Health Services recognizes that students may be experiencing additional stress ahead of the 2024 presidential election on Nov. 5, and understands that uncertainty and ambiguity can take a toll on mental health and general wellbeing. UHS Mental Health Services provides compassionate and accessible support to students at UW-Madison for no-cost. Learn more about how students can support their mental wellbeing during this time.
Sociopolitical stress involves the emotional impact of political events and movements, distinct from other stress types, yet often interconnected. Over the past decade, research has intensified to explore the unique characteristics of political anxiety, including its overlap with generalized anxiety and its key differences. Research shows that the majority of U.S. adults, regardless of political party affiliation, experience stress associated with the election (APA, 2020 ). You might find yourself feeling sociopolitical stress during election cycles, particularly as your exposure to news and media coverage intensifies.
What does sociopolitical stress feel like?
Sleep Disruption: Many report that politics affects sleep and social relationships, leading to excessive social media engagement.
Divided Attention: Multitasking leads to “continuous partial attention,” reducing productivity.
Anxiety: Negative news coverage can create feelings of powerlessness, affecting overall wellbeing.
Anger: Current news often features intense language, contributing to heightened emotions and escalating social media conflicts.
UHS Mental Health Services to help navigate sociopolitical stress
Crafting Community | November 12 from 12 pm – 4 pm at the Office of Inclusion Education, 214 Red Gym
Join the Office of Inclusion Education and UHS Mental Health Services for a space to engage with community members with crafts and activities to enjoy. This event will feature snacks, vision boarding, and optional Let’s Talk consultations.
Let’s Talk | View our fall schedule
No-cost, informal, and confidential consultations available on campus and online. Sessions last 20-25 minutes and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Let’s Talk is available virtually and in person every day of the week.
Single sessions can be a great option for students with a time-limited concern who want support processing or problem solving, or for someone unfamiliar with counseling who wants to experience it before considering ongoing counseling. Students must schedule an Access Appointment prior to scheduling a single session.
The Badger Support Network provides peer-facilitated groups and community building events. Peer groups are designed to provide an accessible, inclusive, and confidential environment where students are encouraged to openly share their thoughts and experiences. Stay up to date on the latest happenings by following BSN on Instagram!
Connecting Badgers provides students with tips to promote their mental health in order to strengthen wellbeing and success. The podcast helps listeners improve their mental health literacy so they can recognize, manage, and prevent mental health concerns. Listen to the latest episode about election stress!
Your mental wellbeing matters as much as your vote. If you’re looking for more voting resources, visit vote.wisc.edu.