by Riley Blankenship

November 6, 2024 marked a momentous morning as the world woke up to Donald Trump winning the 2024 presidential election, easily defeating Vice President Kamala Harris 312 electoral votes to 226 electoral votes. Many students are feeling a mixture of emotions after the election. There is a huge urge to scroll through news feeds, searching for answers or comfort which is very desirable. However, doing this can also make us feel worse. So, how can we cope with this outcome and find ways to stay positive?

Students from across the country are feeling angry, disappointed and fearful. This is a completely valid way to feel after such an unprecedented moment when things did not go the way most expected. Shortly after the news broke, CBS News published an article discussing post-election emotions. In this, physicist Dr. Sue Varma advised that students taking a break from social media and news can be of great benefit for those stressed and also advises students to seek help if needed. The Trevor Project, a LGBTQ+ youth organization, reported on a 200% increase in election conversations in their crisis services leading up to election day. 

 Over the past few years, doom scrolling has become a more common response to unprecedented events such as elections, where people find themselves scrolling through news updates, hoping for new information or a sense of control. It can start simple at first —checking one news headline, then another, and before you know it, you have lost track of time. The problem is that this constant repetition to negative news can have a serious toll on mental health. Studies have shown that doom scrolling increases stress and anxiety, leaving us feeling drained and even helpless. According to an article by the Guardian, 74% of adults that have a severe problem with doom scrolling reported having significant mental health issues. For many students, especially during and after a tense election, it becomes this cycle of checking your feed, feeling overwhelmed, and then checking again, hoping the next update will give further clarity and understanding.  Unfortunately this behavior only strengthens feelings of uncertainty and can mess with focus and sleep. It is a trap that is easy to fall into, but identifying it is the first step toward breaking free.

The Collegian spoke with GC junior student Sean Pullin to reflect on his emotions during the post-election. Pullin explained that, right after hearing the results like most college students, he felt very anxious, worried and really scared for his future. Pullin said he believes there will be many negative impacts on college students, especially if the proposed ideas of removal of the Department of Education and FAFSA, which many college students use for scholarships and grants, actually happens. Pullin also emphasized the importance of staying positive and focusing on mental health. Furthermore, Pullin addressed the concern many LGBTQ+ students are struggling with, saying that students should continue to live their authentic lives and not hide any part of themselves.

While it is important to stay informed, it is just as important to protect your mental health during election season. One practical way to cope is by setting limits on how much news you consume each day. A study from Deloitte showed that in a connected consumer survey, 53% of the participants say they struggle with limiting their screen time. A tip to try could be designating specific times to check updates, rather than constantly scrolling throughout the day. You might even consider using apps or features that limit your screen time. Another successful strategy is to engage in activities that help you detach from the constant flow of information. Spend time with friends, go outside or even dive into a hobby you enjoy—anything that can shift your focus away from the news cycle. Direct service and actions can also help stop feelings of helplessness, whether that is volunteering for a cause you believe in or joining a student group focused on positive change. These small steps not only help you manage anxiety but can also make a tangible difference in your community.