Fanshawe College students are invited to step away from their coursework and focus on their well-being during United for Mental Health, a campus event taking place Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the London Campus.
The event will offer students opportunities to take part in selfcare activities while learning about mental health services available on campus.
Organizers say the timing of the event is intentional, as many students face increased stress at the start of a new semester during the winter months.
“January can be a difficult time for students, especially with weather and the beginning of a new term,” said Cami Ariza the event coordinator of United for Mental Health with the Fanshawe Student Union.
Ariza added, “We wanted to create a space where students can slow down, disconnect from stress and focus on their well being.”
The event will feature activities hosted by the Fanshawe Student Union, Counselling and Accessibility Services, Athletics and Recreation, and several campus support centers.
FSU Services
Credit: Melissa Ghanoum
Students can take part in free henna designs, hot chocolate, giveaways, and stress busting activities.
Fanshawe Athletics will also offer obstacle courses with prizes in Gyms 1 and 2, while the Fitness Centre will host exercise classes, yoga and rock wall climbing throughout the day.
Brandon Roy, a recreation athletic assistant at the Fanshawe Rec Desk, said physical activity can play an important role in supporting student’s mental health.
Recreation athletic assistant Brandon Roy Credit: Melissa Ghanoum
“Staying active gives students a break from coursework or other stress and helps them focus on something different,” Roy said.
Event ambassadors will be there tomorrow to help guide students and connect them with available support. Alvin Lin, an event ambassador with the FSU, said the goal is to make sure students feel informed and encouraged to participate.
Several students said “the start of a new semester can be overwhelming, and events like United for Mental Health are helpful.”
Fanshawe Students Kiel Quijano, Kathrine Cruz and Laure-Sandy Credit: Melissa Ghanoum
The event is free to attend and open to all Fanshawe students.
