Support and resources
SafeCampus
Service to connect anyone with concerns about safety with the right resources
UW Counseling Center
Multiple options for students seeking help coping with stress and mental health concerns on the Seattle Campus
UW Bothell Counseling Center
Serving UW Bothell and Cascadia College students
UW Tacoma Psychological and Wellness Services
Serving UW Tacoma students and consultation for faculty, staff and families
Let’s Talk
Free, confidential, informal drop-in counseling services
Husky
Health Center
UW center with a range of services to assess and treat mental health concerns
Washington State Employee Assistance Program
Service for employees that connects you with experts who help you or your family members navigate life’s challenges
This coming Tuesday, November 5, our nation will participate in one of the most important events in the life of a healthy democracy: electing our leaders and representatives, including, of course, the next U.S. president. As we approach the election, I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the stress and anxiety that many are feeling in what has been an undeniably polarizing and divisive campaign season. Regardless of the outcome of this election, our democratic values and principles matter, and our participation in the democratic process is essential.
For those who are eligible, voting is not just a right, it’s our opportunity to shape the future of our communities, our state and our nation. In Washington, we are voting both on candidates for office and on state and local ballot measures, and I hope you will take time to learn about the candidates and issues and cast your vote. If you need information about how to cast your vote, visit the Washington voter portal.
If you are experiencing stress or anxiety about the election—or for any reason—know that resources and support are available. You can find links in the info box to mental health and counseling resources. Also remember to practice good self-care, to step away from screen time and social media if you need to, and to check in with the people you care about and who care about you.
As a University devoted to learning and discovery and to fostering discussion and debate, I encourage you to watch the Democracy in Focus lecture series, sponsored by Provost Tricia Serio, which explores some of the most important aspects of the democratic process. And I invite you to participate in the November 7 town hall, “Trust on the Ballot: Voting in Washington,” hosted by the College of Arts & Sciences and the Evans School for Public Policy & Governance, which will feature three current and former Washington secretaries of state in a discussion of the history and evolution of voting in our state.
As a community, we will always cultivate learning, discovery and discussion that supports a thriving democracy and civic engagement. And we will continue to be a community that supports one another and lifts each other up as we work to serve the public interest.