At the beginning of a new school semester, it’s normal to feel tired and maybe a little overwhelmed. With current events and rapid changes in our world, you might be feeling a little more than overwhelmed. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and other changes in well-being might be a sign you need help.

What is self-care and self-help?

Self-care is taking care of yourself and protecting your well-being, particularly in times of stress. It is not selfish and it is not pampering yourself. It is taking action – sometimes difficult action – to care for your body, mind, and spirit.

Self-help and seeking help from others is a form of self-care that at times may be difficult. It isn’t always easy to ask for help, especially when you may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or confused by your feelings. However, it’s important to care for yourself – especially if you come from a background where such focus is stigmatized. While you may feel it’s important to focus on the now and what needs done – in your classes, in your family, in other parts of your life – you may find yourself unable to continue taking on demands and experiencing extreme exhaustion if you don’t attend to your needs. In a world that often pushes aside the joy, care, and needs of marginalized communities, looking out for your wellbeing is a radical act.

How do I know when I need help?

If you think you might, you do. Because anyone can use mental health services at any time for any reason. Think of it like checking up on your mind they way you check up on your body during an annual physical.

If you’re concerned you might be having serious problems, there are a number of resources you can turn to on campus.

• Center for Wellness and Counseling (CWC): The CWC offers short-term counseling which honors student confidentiality, cultural background, goals, and identifies. They offer drop-in hours throughout the semester and also scheduled appointments. For more about their hours and services, visit the CWC website.
• 24/7/365 Urgent Phone Counseling: If you need immediate support, the CWC has partnered with BetterMynd. You can call and speak with a behavioral health clinician at anytime at 844-287-6969.
• Crisis Support: If you need additional resources (including hotlines for specific identities and affinities, visit the support page curated by the CWC.
• Mental Health screening: This tool, shared by the CWC and created by Mental Health America, can provide secure and anonymous screening to help you identify what you may be dealing with. It is a quick screenshot of your mental health, not an official diagnosis, but it can help you understand what help you may need.
• Self-care toolkit: While the Strommen Center are not licensed mental health practitioners, we have created a mental health toolkit to assist you in day to day support. Links to the CWC pages and additional resources are also included.
• Campus Ministry: If you’re looking for a confidential ear but not sure if you need mental health support, Campus Ministry can be a good place to turn to. Our campus ministry provide interfaith support and dialogue, and can be a great option when you need a kind, listening ear.

You are not alone with what you are going through – your community here cares about you and supports you. If you are unsure what exactly advice you need, even asking for a referral from any staff and faculty member can be a place to start. Stay strong, lovelies, and give yourselves grace and compassion.

Additional Reading

Self-care is a Revolutionary Act – Danielle Powell, The Reader

Self-Care is an Act of Revolution When You Are Black – Jor-El Caraballo, Essence