Vote!: Resources from Seattle Colleges

1. Do not focus on what you cannot control During times of uncertainty, it is common to imagine a worst-case scenario. Recognize that on election night, there may not be a clear winner. Be OK with not knowing and limit thinking negatively about election outcomes. Tell yourself you can wait until all votes are counted.
2. Focus behaviors on what you can control Engage in meaningful activities that you enjoy.
3. Limit exposure to the news Watching a 24-hour news cycle can increase your stress response. You may want to watch / read about election updates just once a day.
4. Recognize some anxiety is normal An article from Newsweek highlights that the election brings about our "fears and hope of how the administration will reflect our values as citizens." Reassure your midbrain that regardless of what happens, we as collective citizens are resilient and strong. We have coped with challenges like the Covid-19 Pandemic and the 2020 election before, and we have the internal resources to cope with the outcomes of this election.
5. Establish mutual supportive connections American Psychological Association writes: "people who have at least one or two friends or family members to turn to during stressful times tend to cope better than those who don't have support." Stay connected with friends, housemates, family members, or roommates. Participate in campus supported activities to expand your support during the week of the election.
6. Stay active Exercise helps relieve stress and regulate mood. On election day, plan physical activities to promote health and well-being. Check out the offerings at your campus wellness center to get your body moving and release election stress.
7. Engage in self-care strategies Some self-care strategies may include getting enough sleep; eating well; exercising; staying socially connected; mindful meditation; and limiting exposure to news cycles. Check out the Greater Good Science Center for short guided-exercises that promote self-care and well-being.

References

American Psychological Association. (2020, October 7).2020 Presidential Election A Source of Significant Stress For More Americans Than 2016 Presidential Race. Cision, PR Newswire. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2020-presidential-election-a-source-of-significant-stress-for-more-americans-than-2016-presidential-race-301147222.html

GANDER, KASHMIRA. How to Cope With Election Anxiety, According to the American Psychological Association, 7 Oct. 2020, www.newsweek.com/how-cope-election-anxiety-american-psychological-association-apa-1537014.

Our EDIC and the Civil Engagement team has teamed up with Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) sorority to have an election night watch party at South Seattle College Brockey Center.

This is not a political event, and all Seattle Colleges employees are invited to attend. There will be multiple big screens with MSNBC, FOX News, and CNN airing.

When: Doors open at 5:30pm, Tuesday November 5th

Where: South Seattle College, Brockey Center, 6000 16th Ave SW Seattle

How to get tickets: Tickets to the event can be purchased using the scan code below for $19.08 or follow the link here

Here are some of the reasons you should attend:

• Free Parking
• Three Big Screens simultaneously showing giving different perspectives - CNN, FOX, and MSNBC
• Cash Bar with ID
• Appetizers will be provided
• There are a few free tickets available; contact Tim Collins to reserve your tickets, Tim.collins@seattlecolleges.edu
• Proceeds to go to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority High School Scholarships

We would like to make a special thank you to EDIC’s D’Andre Fisher, Jill Lane, and the EDIC students and staff, North’s TLC, North’s SLC, Dan, Willa, Kevin, student leaders on all three campuses, the League of Women Voters, Washington Bus, Patti Gorman (Ms. Liberty), New Voters Project, Central's PTK chapter, POLS Faculty, and all others who participated