Tips for coping with the political climate
Posted on: January 16, 2021; Updated on: January 16, 2021
The political divisions and social unrest in the U.S. have continued in 2021. To help students stay aware of — and cope with — current events, the Leadership and Service Center has compiled the following tips.
Develop a strategy on how you will cope and respond to current events
- Take time to unplug and take a mental and emotional break from media platforms. Check out Press Pause for tips and strategies for dealing with heightened emotions and feeling overwhelmed.
- Take advantage of the many UofSC mental health and emotional well-being resources.
- Reflect on examples of resilience within your culture and heritage.
- Practice self-compassion. Remember you are not alone in how you are feeling
- It may seem difficult but reflect on what you are grateful for. Gratitude can help us feel energized and bind us to others.
Engage in meaningful and productive dialogue.
- Identify and reach out to someone you trust to talk through these events and your response
- Looking to encourage productive dialogue among your peers? Check out our Creating Meaningful Dialogue Discussion Guide [pdf] to use within your communities on campus.
- Invite the Civic Leadership, Education, and Action Team (CLEAT) to facilitate a public deliberation program with your peer group on campus. This is a great activity to request for your classroom, student organization meeting, or your peer leader meetings.
Monitor and limit your news and social media consumption when necessary for mental well-being.
- When consuming information, make sure to fact check what you are reading:
Make plans to continue to support the causes you care the most about.
- Join a student organization or participate in community service.
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