Mental Health Awareness Week to include Healthy Boiler workshops

As part of Purdue’s inaugural Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW), and in support of the behavioral health, physical health and social wellness pillars of the Healthy Boiler Program, Human Resources is bringing three mental health-based workshops to campus. Healthy Boiler workshops are free to benefits-eligible employees and dependents covered on a Purdue health plan.  

As a reminder, registration for all Healthy Boiler workshops is done online via the Healthy Boiler Portal; registration is due by the day before the respective workshop takes place. Registration link can be found under the “Engage” tab, “Wellness Events” on the portal’s homepage.

Mental Health First Aid Overview
Feb. 17, 12:10-12:50 p.m. Purdue Memorial Union, Room 263AB
As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five adults in the U.S. struggles with mental health issues while more and more employees also report high stress levels and workplace burnout. In that regard, how is one to know whether it’s simple workplace stress, burnout or a mental health condition in need of professional help?

Tessa Garrow, licensed mental health therapist in the College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue Extension, will present an overview regarding stress in the workplace, ways to introduce self-care and resources to learn more about mental health. Additionally, Garrow will share information about the “Mental Health First Aid” skills-based training offered by Purdue Extension. Extension facilitators can bring the course to different communities, organizations and businesses.  

Mental Health Advocacy
Feb. 18, 12:10-12:50 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 279
Initiating and destigmatizing conversations surrounding mental health is one of the goals of MHAW. Although the stigma surrounding mental health has seen a decrease – thanks in part due to mental health advocates across the nation – there is still work to be done. Amanda Hathcock, employee assistance counselor at the Center for Healthy Living, will present a workshop on how individuals can better advocate for mental health for themselves, their family and their community. The workshop will provide guidance to participants on how they can use their voices as change agents for mental health care.

Mindful Meditation
Feb. 19, 12:10-12:50 p.m. Mindfulness Room, Córdova Recreational Sports Center (Co-Rec)
Jon Kabat Zinn, known as the “Master of Mindfulness,” has defined mindful meditation as “the awareness that arises from paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment and nonjudgmentally.” Those interested in learning more are invited to attend a free “Mindful Meditation” class led by Jennifer Strickland, assistant director of integrated communications and group fitness at Purdue Recreation & Wellness. The class can help with feelings of being overwhelmed, stressed or anxious and can be applied to many things, including eating, exercise, relationships, thoughts, feelings and more. Strickland will provide a guided meditation to disconnect and create awareness while relieving stress and working toward reducing the feeling of anxiety.