As election arrives, resources increase amid student anxiety

Waller Hall with the Capitol in the background during the evening. Photo by Patricia Krepel.

Ballots are due on Nov. 5, beginning the countdown to the election of the next president of the United States. The tensions are high, and students are anxious, reflecting a nationwide trend.

According to the American Psychological Association, stress related to the election amongst U.S. adults this election season has increased from the 2020 and 2016 election seasons. In 2024, 69% of adults reported elections as a significant stressor in 2024 compared to 68% in 2020 and 52% in 2016. 

In response to this national trend, Willamette has increased the resources available for students during this time. These resources include the “Waiting Room,” a space where students can hang out unplugged on election day, one-on-one visits with faculty, and a faculty panel on Nov. 11 to discuss the election’s impacts. All of these support efforts are intended to make students feel safe and heard whilst navigating election season.

Justin Leibowitz, an assistant dean of students for community care and inclusion, talked about the importance of “an engaged community.” The Waiting Room, hosted on the second floor of the University Center on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., is meant to be an area where students can relax and play games, since “having that bit of opportunity to unplug could be very restorative,” Leibowitz explained. 

Election-related activity on campus won’t be limited to Election Day. Willamette University’s Conversation Project is holding a “What just happened?” panel with WU staff and faculty on Nov. 11 from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. to discuss the political climate and what the outcome of the election means for students. It is available for all students and will be held no matter election results. 

Students can also book individual times with specific faculty members to process election anxiety. These individuals are confidential advocates and may help students navigate their emotions. However, as noted in the Today@Willamette announcement highlighting faculty resources, these faculty members are available year-round, regardless of election season. Beyond the email announcement, there will be flyers around campus with faculty contact information. 

Other resources for students include clubs and organizations. “They are a perfect space for community communication,” Leibowitz noted, especially those that are community and politically aligned.

Leibowitz also emphasized how crucial rest is, as “you cannot pour from an empty cup.” Student’s mental health is incredibly important to faculty. Rest and time away from social discourse surrounding the election will be necessary for some students, especially considering that we will not know the results of the election until a few days after Nov. 5.

All of these resources surrounding the election are made for students to feel safe and comfortable when navigating this particularly turbulent election season. Leibowitz believes that “being in community with one another” can dramatically help students navigate the election. 

Leibowitz also explained the importance of communication with Campus Safety surrounding the Capitol. “We’re always going to continue to be responsive,” Leibowitz said. After the 2020 election, where the United States Capitol was stormed on Jan. 6, 2021, it raised student concerns about the safety of Willamette’s campus in proximity to the Oregon State Capitol. Following the 2020 election, Salem’s Capitol was also met with protests from far-right extremist groups. Students can report concerns to Campus Safety if they see something dangerous nearby or on campus. 

As students navigate the election, it is important to remember that there are resources available. Even while anxiety increases, Willamette faculty and staff are working to create safe spaces for students.