Mental Health and Wellness Committee Check-Ins
Read the latest Wellness Check-In to discover simple tips for caring for your mind and body while boosting your well-being!
Suicide Awareness: You Are Not Alone
September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a critical issue and reminding everyone that mental health is just as important as physical health. At WVNCC, we are committed to fostering a community where everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered to seek help. It is crucial to remember that you are never alone in your struggles, and there are resources available to help you navigate even the most challenging times.
The Power of QPR: Question, Persuade, Refer
Just as CPR saves lives, QPR equips you with the skills to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis, offer hope, and guide individuals to professional help. Learning QPR empowers you to make a real difference for a friend, classmate, or colleague.
- Question: Don't be afraid to ask directly about suicide. Doing so does not "plant the idea"; rather, it opens a door for a life-saving conversation.
- Persuade: Listen without judgment and persuade the individual to seek help.
- Refer: Guide them to the appropriate professional resources.
The WVNCC Mental Health & Wellness Committee periodically offers QPR Gatekeeper Training on campus. We strongly encourage all students, faculty, and staff to participate in these sessions to help create a stronger safety net for our community.
Nurturing Your Well-being Through Self-Care
As the academic year kicks into full swing, self-care becomes an essential tool for resilience—not a luxury. Evidence-based research shows that intentional self-care can significantly reduce stress and boost your ability to handle academic pressure.
- Mindful Movement: Practice yoga or stretching to release physical tension. Resources like Yoga with Adriene offer free sessions for all levels.
- Calm the Mind: Dedicate a few minutes to mindfulness or meditation. Apps like Insight Timer or UCLA Mindful provide free guided practices to help you reset.
- Prioritize the Essentials: Ensure you are getting 7–9 hours of sleep and fueling your body with balanced meals. These are the foundations of cognitive function and emotional regulation.
- Find Your Outlet: Whether it's journaling, reading, or listening to music, make time for the hobbies that replenish your energy.
WVNCC Resources & Support
Physical health and mental health are two sides of the same coin. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the transition back to school, your Northern community is here for you.
- BetterMynd (For Students): Access confidential, online teletherapy and wellness workshops to help you manage stress and build healthy routines.
- 24/7 Help Line: 1-844-B-MYND-ME (1-844-287-6963)
- WVNCC Mental Health Page: Access Resources & Tools
- Student Services: Reach out to discuss any barriers you have to maintaining your wellness while on campus.
"The habits you build today are the foundation for the success you'll achieve tomorrow. Fuel your body with the same care you give your studies."
