HADLEY, Mass. - Today kicks off the start of #NESCACares Mental Health Awareness Week, which will take place through April 3. The initiative, developed by NESCAC SAAC, aims to raise mental health awareness, break the stigma surrounding mental health and share techniques and resources to support mental health well-being at NESCAC institutions.
“Mental health awareness has always been a topic NESCAC SAAC has prioritized, and this year we recognize the importance of continuing to spread awareness even if it looks different than what has typically be done," said Gillian Birk, NESCAC SAAC Co-Chair and Trinity senior softball player.
"The pandemic has been hard on everyone, and for student-athletes being mindful of their own mental health and the mental health of those around them is crucial during these uncertain times. We’re excited to utilize social media to spread awareness for this important cause this week.”
This year, NESCAC SAAC selected daily themes to assist institutional SAACs in planning a variety of events and programming throughout the week.
- Day 1 - Mental Health as an Athlete
- Day 2 - Mental Health as a Student
- Day 3 - Mental Health in Social Life
- Day 4 - Mental Health in a Pandemic
- Day 5 - Resources and Support Systems
- Day 6 - Institutional SAAC Decision
Events scheduled to take place throughout the week on campuses include online guided meditation and wellness classes, workshops, and speakers. Athletic departments will work with other campus groups to provide a broad array of resources and education to all students and staff.
Follow the hashtag #NESCACares on Twitter and Instagram to see what NESCAC institutions are doing throughout the week to promote mental health and wellness.
