Purdue University Northwest > Counseling Center > Resources > Managing Political Uncertainty

Managing Political Uncertainty

Political uncertainty can evoke a wide range of emotions and thoughts, which may impact multiple areas of a student’s life.

This includes relationships with friends, family, classmates and romantic partners, as well as their performance at work and school due to decreased concentration and focus, ultimately affecting their overall mental health.

Tips for Managing Political Uncertanity

Set boundaries

  • Take mental and conversation breaks from politics (e.g., contemplate all the things you’re grateful for that day, talk about your non-political interests).
  • It’s ok to walk away from an overly heated conversation that doesn’t feel productive or meaningful.

Practice self-care

  • Incorporate activities into your daily life that help to make you feel good and recharged (i.e. read a good book, watch a funny TV show/movie, go for a walk/exercise, play a video game).
  • Try mindfulness meditation.

Unplug from social media

  • Limit your exposure to political news and social media (e.g., 30 minutes a day).
  • Unsubscribe/unfollow/deactivate from social media. Try this out for two weeks and see how much time you have back in your life!

Create a daily routine

  • Establish a consistent sleep/wake cycle (i.e. going to bed and waking up about the same time each day). 7-10 hours of sleep a day is the recommendation for college students.
  • Eat/make healthier food choices (i.e., incorporate enough vegetables, fruits and protein). Drink plenty of water and try to limit caffeine.

Connect with those who are supportive

  • Engage with supportive friends and/or allies.
  • Participate in a campus organization, student group, intramurals and/or attend a sporting event.

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