Mental health takes centre stage this week at Brandon University

This article is over 4 years old.

BRANDON – The Brandon University community will be promoting mental health and mental wellness all this week, during Mental Health Week, with a special focus on Wednesday for Bell Let’s Talk Day.

This year’s theme is “Every Action Counts” — a message that helps to reinforce that each of us can do something to either help our own mental wellbeing or to support someone else who may be experiencing mental health challenges.

A black and white cat lies on a book
Elliot is helping promote mental health at Brandon University by modelling for the staff-pet matching contest put on by Student Services.

All week long, the University will be conducting a Speech Bubble Challenge, where people are encouraged to fill in speech bubbles with their tips on how to help create positive change and support yourself or someone you know during times that challenge mental wellness.

The University will also be sharing mental wellness information and tips through email, and promoting a new stress-reducing activity produced new this year for Bell Let’s Talk. This activity, a colouring mandala, is an intricate colouring pattern that’s not just for kids. In fact, colouring has been proven to reduce anxiety and promote mindfulness. A Reconnect With Colouring activity will take place Wednesday in the Mingling Area, alongside Peer Wellness Educators.

The Brandon University Students’ Union also has a number of events planned. BUSU’s week will kick off with Gateschurch fellowship sessions on Monday in the Elephant Room of the KDC (from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.), and de-stress booths in the Mingling Area (also from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.). Tuesday will see a Community Resource Fair in the Mingling Area (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.). On Thursday, the de-stress booths return to the Mingling Area (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.), and there will also be free massages available in the Library Gathering Space (11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.) The week concludes with puppies in the Mingling Area (from noon until 2 p.m.) and a round dance in the courtyard from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

All week long, students also get a chance to participate in a fun activity at Student Services, where staff are posting their own photos along with photos of their pets. Prizes are available for those who can correctly match person with pet.

And, Brandon University is looking to keep the conversation going with more planned in the coming months to promote and support mental health and wellness initiatives.

Contact

To receive any BU publication in an alternate format please contact Communications@BrandonU.ca

About BU

Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.