Election season may be over, but the outcome may continue affecting students’ mental health until the inauguration.
Senior Simone Griggs said she was not surprised by the results and that it brought up memories of 2016 and the consequences that followed such as Roe V. Wade’s overturning, the mishandling of the pandemic and the January 6 attack on the Capitol.
“I have disassociated from the election results which is an unfortunate reality for a lot of us, especially students in the middle of getting ready for finals and working,” said Griggs. “It’s a privilege to be able to pay attention at all. We have been swamped with an overwhelming amount of bad news since the first time Trump has been elected.”
There are multiple resources and groups on campus who are available and going the extra mile to support students’ needs.
“We understand that this is an emotional time in more ways than one. We at SGA open our doors up to anyone who may need an outlet,” said in an Instagram post by SGA leadership. “You may find that there are communities around you experiencing similar feelings, regardless of what they may be – we encourage you to lift each other up while also caring for your fellow Roo.”
The group’s office is in the Student Union, Room 303N, and they encourage students to stop by and talk if needed.
The Women’s Center in Haag has offered more stress relief activities and remains a safe space for people to gather.
On any given afternoon, students can turn to the Women’s Center and find craft tables with friendship bracelet kits, a movie watch party or a calming environment to study.
“We have a handful of regulars who come in, but we probably see about 100 students a day,” said Chelsie Duckworth, Senior Program Coordinator at the Women’s Center. “The day after the election, we had a decompression event, and over 130 students participated.”
Duckworth also said they like to remind students of their eight free therapy sessions, which can be used at any time in the academic school year.
UMKC Counseling Services are available by appointment Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
