With the change in seasons comes warm drinks, colorful leaves, and decorative pumpkins. However, it isn’t always a pleasant time for Poets.
“The upcoming time change, along with midterms and school pressure, holidays, and finances can make this a stressful time for students,” said Dr. Rebecca Eberle-Romberger, director of the Whittier College Student Counseling Center. “We have therapy lights to help students with seasonal affective disorder, and other resources such as a nutritionist to make sure people are taking care of themselves.”
In recognition of Depression Awareness Month, here are some resources for Poets to tap into around campus to help them stay happy and healthy.
It’s hard to ignore the urge to pet a puppy. That’s why the College has pet therapy sessions for Poets to improve their mood and well-being. Students can find the fluffy fun every other Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Founder's Hill Lawn in front of Deihl Hall.
This platform offers free and unlimited telehealth counseling and crisis intervention by calling 1-833-646-1526, or by visiting App.uwill.com.
Bring water, a yoga mat, and a friend to the Lower Quad each Wednesday from 5-6 p.m. to increase your flexibility, build strength, and reduce your stress. “We’re also in the process of ordering VR headsets to look at mindfulness options,” Eberle-Romberger said.
Visit Haverhill A — next to Campus Safety — for a free counseling session. To schedule, call 562-907-4239 or email counselingcenter@whittier.edu. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Another great way to reduce stress is with a free massage. Massages are first come, first serve, so stop by the Wellness Table to reserve a slot every other Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Naylor Portico (Deihl Hall Patio). Massage chairs are also available at the Peer Health Educator office in Johnson Hall.
A free, digital tool to promote self-reflection that allows students to be more proactive with their health and well-being to make the most of their college experience. Poets can find tips and tools for everything from their mental and physical health to friendships and finding balance at you.whittier.edu.
TalkCampus is a safe community to discuss whatever's on a student's mind. This app, free for students with their school email, offers peer-to-peer support in 26 different languages anytime, anywhere. TalkCampus also offers training to become 'Buddies' through an online program, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to be effective peer supporters both online and in person. The program covers the principles of peer support, focusing on active listening, empathy, and self-care.
Based on a model from Cornell University to increase access to mental health support and decrease stigma, these are walk-in consults with a counselor in the Turner Residence Hall office. Hours are Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon and 3-5 p.m.; Wednesdays from 3-5 p.m.; and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon. There is no limit on how many consults a student can attend. Students can also call 562-907-4239 for a telehealth option.
For more information, visit Whittier.edu/counseling.
Have a good story idea? Share it with us.
