VT Better Together

Make yourself a priority through self-care practices. To practice self-care we must take care of our bodies and minds by eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Maintaining a healthy diet has been proven to affect the way you feel. Exercise can decrease anxiety, depression and help improve one’s mood. Hokie Wellness offers “Healthy Hokie” Workshops that encompass self-care practices. Visit https://hokiewellness.vt.edu/students/workshops/workshops.html to sign up for a workshop relevant to your needs.

Photo Credit: Isabella Moncure

Get help from a licensed mental health professional when and if you need it. Seeking help is a sign of strength. Acquiring mental health help requires just as much strength as it does to maintain physically healthy. Cook Counseling Center offers individual, group counseling, and psychiatric services. Visit https://ucc.vt.edu/about/appointments/information_students.html for more information or to make an appointment.

Photo Credit: Isabella Moncure

Tomorrow, March 5th is National Employee Appreciation Day. Share how you are appreciated by your employer or how you appreciate your employee(s). Post a photo and use the hashtag #VTBetterTogether to spread happiness and appreciation on this day.

Disconnect from electronics and social media. Do you ever feel like you spend too much time on your phone or online? Consider adding an electronic-free period to your day. Taking the time to unplug and disconnect from social media will allow you to connect deeper with yourself, interact with people around you, and enjoy the outdoors.

Photo Credit: Isabella Moncure

Yesterday was National Zero Discrimination Day. #VTBetterTogether wants you to know that mental health does not discriminate. Anyone can experience challenges with mental health regardless of their background or race. Background, race, and identity can make access to mental health treatment difficult BUT #VTBetterTogether welcomes all persons regardless of race, culture, identity, and/or gender. Without caring for our mental health, we are unable to be fully healthy.  Check out our resources. We are here for you!

Hello, Hokies! Today is your second well-being day. Take this day to focus on your mental health and well-being! To spread happiness, share ideas on how you are spending the day. Post photos of you enjoying your well-being day and use the hashtag #VTBetterTogether.

Photo Credit: John Jezior

Today is the start of Random Acts of Kindness week. There are many easy and affordable ways to spread kindness to those around you. A simple handwritten note, comment, or smile can help brighten someone’s day. We encourage you to go out and spread kindness, not only this week but everyday. Post a photo spreading kindness this week and use the hashtag, #VTBetterTogether.

Help us end the stigma around mental health and well-being. We all have mental health. Caring for your own well-being as well as others, is necessary in the fight against stigma. Let’s listen to each other and encourage a safe environment where mental health and well-being can be discussed without fear of judgement. #VTBetterTogether

“People start to heal the moment they are heard.”- Cheryl Richardson

Part of the #VTBetterTogether campaign is listening to one another to form a community that is Better Together. This idea is marked by the phrase, “Let’s Listen,” meaning that providing a safe ear may help one feel heard. Part of the process is communicating your thoughts or hardships to someone you trust. Tag a supportive listener of yours below.

“Treat Yourself.” Tomorrow, February 5th, is the first official spring break day. Take this day to focus on your mental well-being! To spread happiness, share ideas on how to spend the day. Tomorrow, post photos of you enjoying your first spring break day and use the hashtag #VTBetterTogether.

Photo Credit: Isabella Moncure