Managing Political Stress

Students are Encouraged to Contact the SCC

The UMB Student Counseling Center (SCC) recognizes the changes in federal policies and decisions may impact some students directly and solicit feelings of marginalization. Students impacted by political stress seeking additional support are encouraged to reach out to the SCC. You may call the SCC directly at (410) 328-8404 and indicate that you have been impacted by recent events.

Students are also welcome to use the SCC same-day service appointments at 2 p.m. Monday - Friday. Appointment requests should be made online. These appointments are offered on a first come, first served basis and should be requested on the day you are available to meet with a counselor.

Please note:

After-hours Crisis Support Line is available when the SCC is closed. Dial (410) 328-8404 and select option 7. For more crisis resources, please visit our Crisis Resource Page.

A February 2024 Pew poll found that 65% of U.S. adults always or often felt exhausted by politics and 55% always or often felt angry. But research now shows the distress we feel around politics can harm our physical and mental health—recent voting cycles highlight the extent of the issue, as we’ve seen a significant increase in reports of stress and anxiety related to politics.

Politics impacts our daily lives, shaping how we live, work, and connect with others. When it causes mental or emotional strain, this is called political stress. Below, you can find detailed information on why many people experience anxiety around politics, resources on how to cope during these times of uncertainty and links to related readings.

Causes of Political Stress

Media Overload

Social media, round-the-clock news and information, and constant updates can quickly become overwhelming, adding to already-frayed nerves. When you add in the high stakes of changes in government leadership, it becomes even more stressful.

Media overload can cause exhaustion, a sense of helplessness or hopelessness, frustration, and confusion. For many, it can even cause anger.

Polarization

Where once it was easy to find common middle ground, people were happy to agree to disagree, and differing opinions warranted respect, today, political discourse is more divisive than it is a healthy discussion. The resulting “us vs. them” mentality can breed fear and exacerbate feelings of anxiety over the outcome of the future.

Uncertainty/Loss of Control

Changes in political administration can bring about feelings of uncertainty about leadership, policies or the future. It can be an uncomfortable feeling to have little to no control over the laws and decisions that affect you directly. Feelings of being targeted or marginalized by political issues can be unsettling or stressful, and when fear of the unknown arises, it can be gravely anxiety-provoking.