Colleges across the U.S. are offering “coping spaces” to help students manage potential stress following the 2024 presidential election. These efforts, aimed at fostering mindfulness and relaxation, include designated spaces for activities like coloring, Lego-building and drop-in counseling.
The Free Press reports how Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy, the day after the election, features an all-day “self-care suite,” where students can take part in stress-relieving activities, including a “Legos station,” coloring exercises and guided meditation.
According to Jaclyn Clevenger, Georgetown’s director of student engagement, the initiative is intended to provide a break during a tense period.
Missouri State University’s counseling center has also set up a “no phone zone,” with calm jars, sensory fidget tools and coloring pages. The school describes this space as a quiet area where students can unplug from social media and focus on personal relaxation.
Washington University in St. Louis, as part of its “Engage Democracy 2024” program, has introduced drop-in counseling sessions where students can talk with mental health professionals individually or in small groups. The university states that this is meant to offer supportive spaces for students who may feel anxious or stressed after the election results.
These programs reflect a broader trend in higher education, as universities increasingly seek to address student mental health during national events. Schools like the University of Michigan have implemented measures like flexible deadlines and additional mental health support to ensure students have access to resources during what they say are potentially challenging times.
