New York, United States

At Georgetown University in Washington, DC, students who are dreading listening to political views different from their own are being offered “self-care suites” to help them cope as the 2024 United States presidential elections are underway.

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These apolitical cocoons offer students a variety of comfort items, such as milk, cookies, hot cocoa, colouring books, and even a Lego station, and an escape from anything resembling political discourse.

The McCourt School of Public Policy has launched them, according to the New York Post.

Also read | Donald Trump casts vote in Florida, says he’ll accept defeat if it’s 'a fair election'

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'Stressful times'

In an email sent to students, Jaclyn Clevenger, Georgetown's Director of Student Engagement, invited the McCourt community to gather in the “third floor Commons” to unwind with mindfulness activities and refreshments.

The suites are open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (local time), offering an environment focused solely on relaxation.

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“In recognition of these stressful times, all McCourt community members are welcome to gather … in the 3rd floor Commons to take a much-needed break, joining us for mindfulness activities and snacks throughout the day,” wrote Clevenger in the email obtained by The Free Press.

Also read | Donald Trump casts vote in Florida, says he’ll accept defeat if it’s 'a fair election'

'Right way to handle young people?'

Just last week, news of the Ethical Culture Fieldston School, a private school in New York City, offering its students the option to take a day off if they found themselves emotionally distressed after the election surfaced.

Slamming the coddling, Comedian Jerry Seinfeld a former Fieldston parent, Seinfeld, questioned, “What kind of lives have these people led that makes them think that this is the right way to handle young people?”

“To encourage them to buckle. This is the lesson they are providing, for ungodly sums of money,” he remarked in a conversation with the New York Times.

Watch | US Election 2024: Will Americans Choose A First Woman President?

Universities coddling students?

Other universities, like the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington, have also introduced similar wellness offerings to support students in processing Election Day stress.

Puget Sound students can avail not just one day but a week-long line-up of calming activities — beyond Election Day. Options for relaxation include a “walkable labyrinth” with “calming lighting and music,” snacks and a creative space for arts and crafts such as beading and canvas-bag decorating.

Later in the week, those still feeling anxious due to the heated political environment can attend a “Pause for Paws” event, where they can relax with therapy animals while slurping hot chocolate.

Additional post-election programmes for “victims” of political willies at the institute include a “post-election processing space” for journaling, collage-making, and comfort food, featuring a baked potato bar.

(With inputs from agencies)