As election day approaches, stress levels can rise, especially for college students who may be experiencing this for the first time. The uncertainty of what lies ahead and the constant worry about the future can lead to heightened anxiety.
Religious groups and leaders at Goshen College play a crucial role by fostering a sense of community and encouraging mindfulness. They help students manage stress and focus on the present, reminding us that we are not alone in facing these challenges.“One of the most effective ways I’ve found to manage stress, during election season, or really anytime, is to get outside into nature,” said Jen Shenk, GC’s campus pastor. “I’m reminded that I’m connected to something larger.”
Shenk also mentioned how being creative, doing something with her hands, being around kids and limiting time on her phone are also strategies that she uses to manage stress.
In today’s fast-paced world, the constant stream of news at our fingertips brings both benefits and costs. Shenk said, “Our brains and hearts are not wired to process this frequency or magnitude of information, so of course we are anxious and depressed.”
To manage this overwhelming influx, she found that setting daily time limits on news consumption is essential. “I turn off all news notifications, so I can engage with the news when I’m in a good space to process it,” she said.
As pre-election stress mounts, the Campus Ministries team, a student group working under the direction of Shenk, emphasizes the need to encourage students to engage politically. Kate Bodiker, a junior writing and communication major, noted, “There are a lot of important issues I think we can agree on, no matter what side you are falling on.”
Similarly, Shenk offered a straightforward way to alleviate some of that anxiety. “The first thing you can do is vote! That will at least help you know you did something.”
In times of stress, the importance of connection becomes more apparent. Shenk said, “I think the more we can stay engaged with each other, the better off we’ll be. Human beings are wired for connection, so when there are activities to attend — games, concerts, club-sponsored events — go if you can!”
This understanding inspired Campus Ministries to organize an event on election night. “We want it to be stress free but at the same time people just need a space to process, maybe they just need to talk about it. We are looking to ask people to be respectful and understanding,” said Bodiker. “But also just providing a place for people to come and do activities.”
In this event, dubbed “Shrink Your Stress,” students can make Shrinky Dinks. “It’s just to have a little project going on. I know it can be helpful for some people to not have to think about everything that is going on,” Bodiker said.
Besides that event, which will take place Tuesday night, convocation the following morning will be “singing and praying for peace” and “a time to destress, focusing on the idea of recentering ourselves,” said Bodiker.
By engaging in these events, students are reminded that they are not alone as they prepare to face the challenges of an upcoming election. As stated by Bodiker and Shenk, these moments of connections and mindfulness can serve as a grounding force, helping to alleviate stress and foster a sense of hope and solidarity.
Shenk noted that as people navigate the challenges of this election season, it is vital to remember the importance of kindness and understanding. She said, “In this stressful time, I think it’s important to be kind to one another. I honestly believe that everyone is truly doing the best they can.”
