Mental Health and Wellness Awareness Week

We are the most advanced generation to date- yet we are suffering the most from mental illness more than ever before.

Why is this?

We are a generation always looking for the next thing. We are never satisfied with being mediocre. This is both a blessing and a curse; never feeling good enough, never feeling like the job is finished. We compare our lives to others Instagram accounts, forgetting that people post only what they want others to see. We hide the images of ourselves that we are uncomfortable with.

Living on a campus of 40,000+ kids, its not unfamiliar to feel alone. In fact, according to the “U Are Not Alone” website, 1 in 4 college students have been diagnosed with or treated for a mental illness. This week, Mental Health and Wellness Awareness Week, “Active Minds” will be set up throughout the week in the HUB. Each day, you will find a different mental health topic being discussed.

The Line Up

Monday: Eating Disorders & Body Image

Tuesday: Substance Abuse and Addiction

Wednesday: Depression and Suicide

Thursday: Stress, Anxiety, and PTSD

Friday: Resiliency

No mental illness should go unnoticed. This time in the semester, work can pile up and stress levels are through the roof. Valley talked to Social Psychology professor here at PSU, Karen Gasper, to get her advice. When Valley asked her what the most important tip is towards dealing with school-related stress, she believes “it’s important to make a reasonable plan for your week. One that provides you with time to work and time to play.” It’s all about balance!

Be sure to take a break from studying to stop by the HUB this week. For more information on mental illness, please visit CAPS (Counseling & Physiological Service).