Take time to take care of you (it might involve a furry friend)

Mental health conditions do not discriminate based on race, color, gender or identity. Anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness regardless of their background. However, background and identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult. 

July is Bebe Moore-Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, and we’re taking time to recognize mental health needs and experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ communities. The Office of Faculty Wellness offers several resources to help minority communities and allies learn about signs of distress, common myths, treatment barriers, coping mechanisms, and more.

1. The Office of Faculty Wellness private group on Facebook shares information pertinent to mental health and wellness, especially for those in BIPOC communities.
2. Colleagues will hold an informational table, with details on the Interactive Screening Program, and host therapy dogs (that’s right… pet some cute puppers!) on Friday, July 23, at Clements University Hospital.
3. At noon Tuesday, July 27, join the Seizing the Opportunity panel discussion and webinar, which will focus on what the pandemic has taught us about mental health in minority populations.
4. In collaboration with the Employee Assistance Program, they’ve prepared a National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month toolkit with history, dozens of resources and tips, even ways to get a better night’s sleep.