How Colleges Use Mindfulness to Tackle Election Stress and Resilience Issues

As college campuses grapple with election-related stress, a surge in mindfulness activities sparks a debate on the resilience of today’s youth.

At a Glance

Young voters hold substantial influence in upcoming elections.
The 26th Amendment empowered young voters, shaping the electoral landscape.
A growing number of young voters feel alienated from political processes.
Mindfulness can significantly alleviate election-related stress.

Growing Influence of Young Voters

Young voters are expected to play a critical role in the upcoming elections, with nearly one-fifth of the electorate represented by this demographic. This significance was solidified by the 26th Amendment, which lowered the voting age to 18, granting young people a powerful voice. However, a disconnect persists, with many expressing dissatisfaction and indicating a reluctance to vote.

Fostering this engagement is essential for encouraging a habit of civic participation, which includes not only voting but also nurturing a critical approach to media consumption, combating misinformation, and ensuring informed decision-making during elections.

Mindfulness Strategies for Stress Management

Dr. Judson Brewer of Brown University emphasizes the importance of recognizing and altering the anxiety habit loop. In his article, “Curiosity is Our Superpower”, Judson identifies stress triggers and recommends replacing them with healthy habits so individuals can achieve greater calm. Mindfulness, including practices like deep breathing and staying grounded, serves as crucial tools.

Colleges, such as Georgetown University, offer unique programs like the “Self-Care Suite,” where students engage in activities to diffuse post-election tension. Such initiatives aim to provide emotional relief and promote overall well-being amid political upheavals.

Debating Generational Resilience

The rise of mindfulness initiatives begs the question of whether these strategies cultivate genuine resilience. Older generations question the reliance on tactics seen as excessive pampering without encouraging young adults to confront challenges directly. The provision of comfort through external sources is perceived as potentially inhibiting the development of authentic coping mechanisms.

“In recognition of these stressful times, all McCourt community members are welcome to gather… in the 3rd floor Commons to take a much needed break, joining us for mindfulness activities and snacks throughout the day,” said Jaclyn Clevenger, Georgetown’s director of student engagement.

Critics argue that while such methods provide temporary solace, they may not prepare students for real-world stresses. The debate highlights the generational divide on reliance versus resilience, noting that societal expectations contribute to shaping today’s youth’s adaptive skills.