Understanding the post-election process
Once voting ends, the post-election process ensures that votes are accurately counted, results are verified, and transitions of power are conducted smoothly. This often does not happen during Election Day and can take weeks to arrive at a certified and final result.
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How the Election Process Works
Managing your well-being and sociopolitical stress
Navigating today’s social and political landscape can be overwhelming. If you're feeling stressed, know that you’re not alone, and support is available. Here are some tips and resources to help manage stress and prioritize mental health.
What is sociopolitical stress?
College students are susceptible to experiencing sociopolitical stress due to the current political climate on college campuses, exposure to social media, and increased overall political engagement. What you may feel is validated, and there are coping strategies and support available to you.
Tips for Managing Stress
Prioritizing your mental well-being, both on Election Day and beyond, is crucial to help you navigate situations that may be uncomfortable or new.
- Stay Informed but Limit Overexposure
Stay updated, but set boundaries on how much news you consume. Regularly taking breaks from social media and news feeds can prevent feeling overwhelmed. Consider setting time limits on social media apps you use for a few days. - Practice Self-Care
Engage in activities that promote relaxation, like meditation, exercise, or simply spending time with friends and family. Physical self-care (like going for a walk outside) and mindfulness can go a long way in supporting emotional well-being. - Stick with Routines
Major events, like presidential elections, make it easy for us to step outside of our routines for a few days. If your routine works for you, stick to it. Go to bed and wake up at your usual times, head to the gym, and don't forget to nourish your body. The news will be there in the morning. - Connect with Others
Sharing your thoughts and feelings with trusted friends, family, or campus groups can help relieve stress. Consider attending peer support events on campus, such as group discussions or support circles, where you can find solidarity with others. - Focus on What You Can Control
Shifting your focus to what you can control, such as taking small actions or volunteering, can reduce feelings of helplessness and increase your sense of agency.
Self-Guided Stress Management Activities
Being an active member of your community
Check out these ways you can be an active member of your community.
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Following reputable news sources, government updates, and community bulletins keeps students informed on issues that affect them locally, nationally, and globally. Staying aware of key issues allows them to make educated decisions and contributions.
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Many decisions impacting students happen locally or within university governance. Students can attend borough council meetings, participate in campus forums, or join a student government association or caucus to voice their views on policies and decisions.
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Civic engagement often starts with small actions. Volunteering with local nonprofits, community centers, or on-campus organizations is a meaningful way to contribute to the community while meeting new people and gaining valuable experience.
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Students can support causes they’re passionate about through campus clubs, organizations, or local initiatives focused on environmental sustainability, social justice, health, and other issues. Participating in or organizing advocacy events raises awareness and drives positive change.
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Universities like Penn State frequently host forums, panels, and workshops on pressing social issues. Attending these events offers students a chance to learn from experts, ask questions, and connect with others passionate about making a difference.
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Supporting small businesses and student-run enterprises builds economic resilience in the community. Students can make a positive impact on the local economy by choosing to shop locally.
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Sustainability is a key aspect of responsible citizenship. Students can participate in clean-up initiatives, practice recycling, reduce single-use plastics, and support campus sustainability programs.
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Helping others get informed and registered to vote is a powerful way to foster civic engagement. Students can volunteer with voter registration drives, distribute election information, and educate peers on voting rights and processes.
Reporting and Support Resources
No matter what you experience, there is support available for you at Penn State.