Especially for BIPOC students, including those who are working class, immigrants or children of immigrants, queer, and/or students who are the first in their families to attend college, the transition to college can be a thrilling & stressful time. Approach wellness & mental health with a preventative lens & develop a routine that offers holistic, protective care.
Imagine standing near a doorway that promises to help you to feel more connected and grounded in who you are. Many young people and those who care for them enter this doorway through spiritual practices that nourish their souls physically, emotionally, and spiritually. These practices are an important part of soul care, which captures the essence of how people have cared for themselves throughout history.
“I grew up in a secular household, yet spirituality has always been present in my life in subtle ways. I have come to see it as more than just religion — it’s about connection, purpose, and alignment with my values. Spirituality is a compass that helps me navigate life’s decisions, ensuring they resonate with my priorities and goals.” Read more from the University of Pittsburgh student Stephanie Yau.
“Stories have this quiet way of holding you when nothing else can. Writing has always been the one place I didn’t need to shrink myself. In high school during quarantine, I wrote a letter to no one in particular. It started like a diary entry but morphed into a narrative tracing why I felt I had to perform being okay…” Read the rest of the story.
“In a time when social, cultural, and political challenges can feel constant and overwhelming, taking care of mental and emotional well-being is more important than ever. Yet, despite growing awareness of mental health, many young people still face stigma, misunderstanding, and a lack of support when they need help the most.” Read this article by Kentucky State University student Tyra Wesson.
“For me, spiritual identity doesn’t fit neatly into a box or follow a specific doctrine. It's more like an unfolding journey — a living, breathing relationship with myself, the world around me, and something greater than both.” Read this article by Kentucky State University student Tyra Wesson.
“During my childhood, I often didn’t enjoy myself. Whether it was forcing myself awake before school, putting effort into an activity that didn’t pay off, or never having enough time to do the things I authentically enjoyed, circumstances weighed me down. Looking back, I was far from reaching my full potential.” Read this article by Haddy Dardir, a student at Case Western Reserve University.
Parents can sometimes feel unsure about how to support their young person when they face mental health challenges. When challenges escalate into more significant mental health issues, it's pivotal for parents to know how to recognize signs and respond effectively. Let’s explore tips and practical steps you can use to support your teen as well as examples of questions and statements you can use to start a conversation.
We are living in a time of unprecedented uncertainty. Anxiety, frustration, anger, and sadness are completely normal emotions to experience. Yet, unchecked, prolonged stress can take a toll on your mental health and for some trigger more serious mental health concerns. Learn to recognize signs of when a young person may need more support.
Times of significant stress and transition can take a toll on mental health. As parents and caregivers, taking an active role in supporting your young person’s emotional well-being can go a long way in helping to reduce negative mental health outcomes. In this edition of the Family Corner Newsletter, we explore how to recognize signs of clinical depression and indicators of when a person may be at risk for suicide or self-harm.
