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3 Self-Care Strategies to Manage the Election and Beyond

October 28, 2024, Jasmin Robinson

The Association’s Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives offers three practical solutions for managing stressors in the next few weeks

photo of Jasmin Robinson

The election season can bring about different emotions and angst for many. However, being proactive with managing stressors and uncertainty is possible. Here are three practical strategies to help you manage the next few weeks.

1. Set Clear Boundaries with News and Social Media

While staying informed is important, constant exposure to political news can be draining. Set specific times during the day to check the news or social media, rather than engaging in continuous scrolling. Consider limiting your news intake to reliable sources and avoiding sensational headlines. This practice can help you avoid becoming overwhelmed.

2. Focus On What You Can Control

It’s easy to feel powerless during an election season, especially when the stakes feel high. However, focusing on what you can control—like voting, volunteering for causes you believe in, resting, or helping others—can empower you and create a sense of agency. Think about what matters to you most and prioritize making time for it.  

3. Seek Community and Support

If you’re feeling really stressed, connect with others from your community or seek formal support through hotlines, counseling services, or support groups. That might look like talking with family and friends, a therapist, or any other sources of support that you trust. Finding a space to process can help alleviate any tensions you have, as well as provide comfort and perspective.

This season can be a challenging time emotionally and mentally. However, building a wellbeing plan that meets your personal and professional needs is important. Setting boundaries, engaging in healthy conversations across differences, and focusing on what you can control can help you navigate this season on your terms.

Stay vigilant, and feel free to add your experiences and suggestions to this list.

About Jasmin Robinson
As Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives with The Association, Jasmin Robinson is part of the team working on DEI in animal welfare spaces. Jasmin is a consultant, educator, and equity thought partner with over 12 years of professional experience. She primarily supports higher education institutions, k-12 schools, and nonprofit organizations with diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic planning, program development, trainings, and facilitation. Jasmin is a certified qualified administrator for the Intercultural Development Inventory, LLC. In addition, she is a member of the Illinois Diversity Council (ILDC), Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA), and the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE). Jasmin is completing a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, and her research interest include Black women experiences in historically white spaces, anti-Blackness, and cultural competence. In her spare time, Jasmin enjoys cooking, walking, thrifting, and brunch spots in the Chicagoland area.

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