Seven Ways to Refocus on Well-Being

Breaking down barriers, stamping out stigma, taking care of yourself—all easier said than done in the best of times. This week, the Counseling Center is offering seven events aimed at helping Terps get closer to these goals while recognizing the extra stressors surrounding social unrest and the pandemic.

Mental Health Awareness Week, observed nationally, kicks off today, and to mark the occasion, UMD’s Counseling Center is holding virtual programming touching on those three themes. Workshops will discuss ways to cope with stress, the added toll of belonging to a marginalized community and how to maintain one’s emotional well-being.

Besides the challenge of keeping healthy—physically and emotionally—during the COVID-19 crisis, the compounding stresses of financial difficulty, isolation, racial injustice and the high stakes of the upcoming presidential election have affected many Terps' mental health and well-being, said Allison Asarch, coordinator of consultation and outreach services and staff psychologist at the Counseling Center.

“There is definitely an impact on depressive symptoms or anxiety, and it’s something that students are definitely talking about,” said Asarch.

The five days of programming include:

• Workshops for Black students, Asian American/Pacific Islander students and Jewish students, designed to discuss the specific stresses members of each group face.
• Screenings for depression symptoms.
• An online “self-care drive-thru,” where students can visit a relaxation station, a dance fitness class and a trivia game focusing on mental health.
• In-person, masked and distanced yoga classes on McKeldin Mall and LaPlata Beach. A Zoom version will also be available for anyone who prefers not to attend in person.

“The Counseling Center really wants students to be taking time to focus on their mental health,” said Asarch. “While this week is a great way to do it, it’s not the only way to do it.”