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My Coast Guard
Commentary | Nov. 4, 2020

Wellness Wednesday—Dealing with election results and other societal stressors

By Keisha Reynolds, MyCG Writer

   
Regardless of whom you voted for, many are expecting election results to come with personal and societal emotional responses. This week’s Wellness Wednesday discussion is sparked by the election but will also offer attendees advice and resources on acceptance during these changing times. Join Capt. Steven Ramassini and Master Chief Petty Officer Francis Tatu, both from Training Center Petaluma, as well as Chaplin Jarad Payne from District 11, on CVR Teams from 3:00-4:00 Eastern.

“The primary impact that we are hoping to make is reassurance that our democracy is stronger than the negative energy that exists today, regardless of the outcome, our constitution and bill of rights will help us navigate these turbulent and unprecedented times,” said Ramassini.

In fact, that is what the acceptance framework created by the Harvard Business Review is all about. Tatu will share concepts from the framework to help people navigate their emotional responses and to help prioritize what’s most important. 

“I think there are a lot of people [who] are nervous,” said Tatu. “When we shrink our world down and concentrate on things that are relevant, like our families and people [who] are close to us, we can refocus our attention there, which will have a better impact on our wellbeing.”

Ramassini agrees and wants to remind people that, “when the world gets pretty noisy, turn everything off and take a peaceful moment.” 

Payne will offer spiritual insights and Coast Guard resources. Primarily, he wants to remind people to return to what centers them. “We can lose sight of the greatness of the ability of people to rise above differences and demonstrate, as Abraham Lincoln called it, the better angels of our nature,” said Payne. “Explore how to manage the uncertainty of our times with the strength and wisdom of our central principles.” 

Tatu offered a bottom-line summary statement of the discussion. “There is a way forward even when things don’t go our way.”

Please click this link to attend Wellness Wednesday from your CG computer, personal computer or mobile device. Even if you do not have a CVR.mil account, you can still watch the stream via the link above. If you wish to maintain anonymity, log out of your normal (USCG/DOD) CVR account and join as a guest. You may also call (571) 388-3904; Conference ID 453 387 852#. If you have questions or suggestions, you may e-mail us at wellnesswednesday@uscg.mil.