Category Archives: Social Health

SOCIAL HEALTH

Building and maintaining strong relationships and being aware of other people’s feelings. Establishing a sense of connection and belonging to others and your community through positive interpersonal interactions.

Life Lessons from Little Ones

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By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-Being Leader

I think out of everything I have done, working with kids is one of my proudest achievements. Throughout my career, I have worked as a group leader, substitute teacher, creative arts coordinator, and now as a theatre and creative movement teacher. People often tell me how I must be a good role model or how I must teach kids so much. I often chuckle when they say this because, in reality, the kids are the ones who teach me so much. 

One of the biggest lessons kids have taught me is to always have hope. About a year ago, I was going through a really difficult period in my life when I felt more alone than ever. There were some days when getting out of bed was hard, but my biggest motivator to start my day was the kids. During these difficult times, I would think to myself how lucky I am to have kids to work with. They have so much strength; they can get into a fight with a friend, talk it out, and make up. They can have a small injury and still be ready to play pickle the next hour. You can give a kid a paper bag, and they will somehow find a way to make a puppet out of it. I always find it ironic when adults criticize kids. Kids go to school for 8 hours, participate in multiple sports, and play instruments, all while dealing with hormones and ever-changing social circles. Kids have taught me that even when you are distraught, in pain, and feel alone, you can get through it, and it will be okay. You will make it through the rain, as they have proven to me. 

I would also say that kids have a great deal of confidence. They are like an unblemished white shirt, but as they get older, this shirt can become stained like a coffee ring on a table. During work, I play silly games with kids where we act out being pirates or aliens at disco parties. I always emphasize to them that no choice is too weird or too bold when acting, and this helps them really get into their characters. As I get older, I fear many things: losing my Arabian locks and, most importantly, losing my spirit. As people age, they often get stuck in patterns regarding whom they choose to be friends with, what hobbies they pursue, and the places they go. 

Seeing how resilient kids are and their ability to go with the flow motivates me to explore my life. Every month, I have a goal to try something new, whether it is axe throwing, going to a Brazilian lounge, or disappearing to Alaska for two weeks. Humility is also important. Let me say this: in my 22 years in this universe, I have met more rude adults than I have children. I have seen grown adults belittle other adults without ever apologizing, or even worse, spread rumors about one another. I think that as adults, our pride often imprisons us in a golden cage. We tend to believe that our way of thinking about politics, relationships, and social class is the only way. Children, on the other hand, have a natural curiosity to understand others.

So, next time you are judging someone, approach them with childlike curiosity. Ask yourself: Why might they be doing this? What did their mom or dad teach them that led them to be this way? Are they having a bad day? Should I give them a hug? Kids will fight each other, but they also forgive each other. Overall, I ask you to approach your life with the same level of curiosity and love that kids do, because the difference it makes might be greater than you ever imagined.

Volunteering for Wellness

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By: Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader

As a college student, managing academic stress, social life, and personal growth can be overwhelming. One often overlooked method of improving mental well-being is volunteering. Engaging in community service has been shown to reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve self-esteem. By giving back, students can find a sense of purpose, build connections, and develop valuable life skills.

UMass Lowell is recognized as a top research institution with R1 Classification, signifying its excellence in research and innovation. This commitment to knowledge and impact extends beyond academics, as the university also prioritizes community engagement and service-learning. Whether you’re looking to make a difference in Lowell or beyond, UMass Lowell provides numerous volunteer opportunities that allow students to engage with the community while boosting their own well-being.

How Volunteering Improves Mental Health

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety – Acts of kindness can release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding and reduces stress levels.
  2. Increases Happiness – Helping others can stimulate the production of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction and motivation.
  3. Enhances Social Connections – Volunteering can build a sense of belonging and help students form meaningful relationships.
  4. Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence – Contributing to a good cause can create a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
  5. Provides a Sense of Purpose – Helping others allows students to gain perspective and develop gratitude for their own lives.

Ways UMass Lowell Students Can Volunteer

UMass Lowell offers many opportunities for students to give back to the community while improving their own wellness. Here are some ways you can get involved:

1. The Office of Community Relations 

2. The Merrimack Valley Food Bank

  • Located in Lowell, this food bank supports families in need and relies on student volunteers.
  • UML students can help organize donations, distribute food, or assist with fundraising events.
  • Check out The Facts to get involved.

3. Service-Learning Courses and Community Internships

  • UMass Lowell offers FAHSS Service Learning and FAHSS Experiential Learning, which integrate hands-on community service with academic studies.
  • These internships allow students to work in marketing, social media, program planning, volunteer management, research, and technology while gaining professional experience.

4. Lowell House of Hope

  • Students can volunteer at House of Hope, which provides shelter and resources for homeless families.
  • Volunteers can help with meal preparation, childcare, donation sorting, and administrative support.

5. Dwelling House of Hope 2025 – Walk for Hunger – May 3rd 2025 at 8 AM

  • UMass Lowell students can participate in Walk for Hunger to support hunger relief efforts.
  • How to Participate:
    • Raise funds to help fight hunger and support the event.
    • Join a team (organizations and programs can form teams to participate together).

6. Student-Led Service Organizations

How to Get Started

Step 1: Identify Your Passion

  • Ask yourself: Do you love working with kids, the elderly, animals, or the environment?
  • Decide if you want to engage in hands-on work or organizational roles.
  • Consider what skills you want to develop through volunteering.

Step 2: Commit and Reflect

  • Volunteering is most rewarding when done consistently.
  • Reflect on how your contributions impact the community and your personal growth.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing, connecting, and enhancing your well-being. As a UMass Lowell student, you have countless ways to get involved, whether through community outreach, environmental efforts, or mentoring programs.

By dedicating time to helping others, you’re not only making a difference in Lowell and beyond but also boosting your mental health, reducing stress, and creating lasting connections.

So, why not start today? Find a cause you’re passionate about and experience the many benefits of giving back!

Spreading Holiday Cheer on a Budget

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By: Adriana Mendez, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

The holiday season is a time of joy and connection, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you’re on a college budget. It’s easy to feel pressured to buy extravagant gifts for your loved ones, but thoughtful and meaningful gifts don’t have to be expensive. Here are some practical tips to help you save money while still giving your family and friends gifts they will cherish.

How to Save Money During the Holidays

  • Set a Spending Limit: Decide how much you can afford to spend and create a budget for each person on your list.
  • Start Early: Shop ahead to take advantage of holiday sales and avoid last-minute, costly purchases.
  • Get Creative with Wrapping: Skip expensive wrapping paper and use recycled materials like newspapers or old magazines for a unique touch.

Affordable Gift Ideas: Sometimes, small and meaningful gifts can have the biggest impact

  • Photo Keepsakes: Frame a favorite photo or create a mini scrapbook of special memories.
  • DIY Gift Sets: Combine inexpensive items into themed bundles, like a “cozy night in” kit with a candle, hot chocolate, and fuzzy socks.
  • Personalized Notes: Write heartfelt letters or create a “coupon book” with promises like cooking dinner or helping with chores.

Making Gifts: Handmade gifts show effort and care without costing much

  • Homemade Treats: Bake cookies, make holiday fudge, or craft a batch of hot cocoa mix in a jar.
  • Crafty Creations: Paint ornaments, knit a scarf, or design simple jewelry for a one-of-a-kind gift.
  • Sentimental Projects: Create a “memory jar” with handwritten notes of your favorite moments shared together.

Consider Thrifting Gifts: Thrift stores are treasure troves for unique and budget-friendly finds

  • Gently Used Items: Look for high-quality books, vintage décor, or stylish clothing.
  • Upcycle with Love: Add a personal touch by customizing thrifted items, like painting a picture frame or decorating a mug.

The holidays don’t have to be about spending big to show you care. With thoughtful planning, creativity, and a bit of effort, you can give meaningful gifts that celebrate the spirit of the season without crushing your wallet. Remember, it’s the thought and love behind the gift that matters most. Happy Holidays!

Citations:

25 Tips to Save Money This Christmas – Ramsey 

Fighting Against Seasonal Depression

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By: Faith Kollie, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader

What is Seasonal Depression?  

Did you know that seasonal changes can affect your emotions? Seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that occurs due to changes in the seasons. It occurs mostly during fall or winter storms. People suffering from SAD might experience a short period of time where they feel sad, unmotivated, or unlike their normal selves. They might also feel hopeless, irritable, tired, or guilty. Depending on the season, individuals with SAD can also have trouble sleeping or indulge in oversleeping. 

Causes of Seasonal Depression: 

Although the exact cause of SAD has not yet been determined, studies have shown that people with winter-pattern seasonal affective disorder have reduced levels of brain chemical serotonin and Vitamin D (NIH). This is due to the lack of sunlight received during the wintertime. 

Prevention: 

It is important to discuss a treatment plan with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing signs of seasonal affective disorder. 

Below, I have listed some strategies to help reduce the risk of developing SAD: 

  • Exercise: Keeping your body active is one way to increase dopamine levels and prevent negative thoughts. 

  • Socialize: Being alone can initiate feelings of loneliness and depression, so try to spend more time with your loved ones and people that make you happy. It can even help to voice your thoughts to these people for advice. Additionally, try to make some new friends if you can. Who knows, you might end up sparking a lifelong relationship! 
    • If you want to talk to someone about your well-being, you can schedule an appointment with me or one of the other Well-being Leaders. I can help you find  ways to manage stress, provide counseling, and guide you to services and resources that will help you avoid seasonal depression. Click this link to schedule an appointment: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx .

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: Although it can be easy to develop unhealthy eating habits sometimes, it is important to try your best to manage your diet. It is key to eat healthy meals that are rich in vitamins and minerals (such as omega-3 fats), as this can help boost your morale and make you feel more balanced. 

  • Change your setting: Changing your environment is vital in re-calibrating your mind.  Sometimes, being in one place can produce a sense of feeling stuck, which can negatively impact your emotions. Try to go out more and explore places you’ve always hoped to visit.

Treatment: 

What if you’re like, “I think I already have it”? 

It is important to talk to a professional, however, here are some recommendations you can follow to help treat SAD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health: 

1. Light therapy: Light therapy can help in treating SAD caused by the winter weather. This therapy is used to help with the reduction of sunlight exposure during the colder seasons, and it involves sitting in a bright light box (about 10,000 lux). The harmful UV rays are filtered out of the light to ensure safety. 

2. Vitamin D intake: With the reduction of sunlight in the winter, vitamin D deficiency is more likely to occur. Talk to your provider about taking vitamin D supplements to maintain your health. 

3. Anti-depressant medications: These medications can help fight against seasonal depression and can be used in combination with talk therapy. Antidepressants work by affecting how the brain produces and uses chemicals involved in mood swings and  depression. 

4. Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, this type of treatment educates individuals with SAD on new and improved ways of thinking and aims to change depressive behaviors. 

Seasonal depression can be difficult to deal with, and it can also be hard to detect, but taking proactive steps to prevent symptoms is key. Remember, it is important to reach out to a professional if you feel symptoms start to worsen. 

Citations: 

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

How Arts Became a Beacon of Hope for Me

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By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-being Leader

My development of love for the arts was not linear. My parents left Iraq during the war in 2008 and moved to the United States. While most children’s earliest memory likely involves playing or socializing, mine is of my parents telling me, at three years old, that we had to move. 

Moving to the United States brought safety, but also challenges. I was not only a member of a minority group, but I also had an accent, looked different, and struggled academically, which made me develop low self-esteem and isolate myself. These circumstances may seem cruel, but I have always lived by the quote, “Rejection is redirection.” My differences allowed me to become more resilient and hardworking. Whether it was school, socializing, or learning English, none of which came easily, I learned to adapt and overcome these challenges. 

Being an outsider gave me a different lens through which to see the world, strengthening my dream ability. Growing up, I often put on shows with my friends and recreated plays or MTV music performances. My father worked three jobs to support us in our transition, even cycling miles to work, so my parents were too busy trying to survive to sign me up for extracurricular activities or theater courses.  

When starting college, I took Acting 1 as a fun elective, but I soon realized how much I loved it. I treasured the opportunity to take a script and create a character using tone, pace, and body language to tell a story. My favorite moment from Acting I was when my class read the play Cherry Orchard and had to recreate a scene with a modern interpretation without changing the dialogue. I played the character of Tuzenbach as if he were the president of a fraternity. Playing a character from a different perspective transformed me, so I incorporated a cheesy smile and put on a “Cali frat boy” voice.  

I subsequently enrolled in a directing workshop course. This challenging class required students to recruit actors and direct scenes independently. I had to perform “echo listens,” which involved showing instead of saying, showcasing the power of using one’s tone and physicality as an actor. Through trial and error, I also learned the importance of carefully selecting actors. 

Directing is not teaching, as it is within the actor to find answers, and as a director, you are more of a compass than a map. Learning to be a compass for other actors encouraged me to use my fellowship scholarship to create an assistant director position for UML’s Spring 2024 play, Mechonaly, by Sarah Ruhl. 

After realizing that acting and directing were my passions, I expanded my horizons by enrolling in play production and set design classes. Although being a scenic artist was not an aspiration of mine, these courses enhanced my skillset as a theater artist. The assignments were open-ended, which improved my critical thinking skills. For our set design finals, we had to create a scene using only the materials that were around us, such as book covers, toothpicks, and straws, to construct walls and furniture. This taught me that theater artists must be adaptable in working with available materials, trusting their intuition, and not relying on others to do their work. As with most lessons, I had to learn the hard way how important it is to pay close attention to small details, such as measuring the window to ensure its dimensions matched those of the theater wall.

In one of my other classes, World Theatre, we learned that the style of theater varies among different countries. I may be biased, but I loved analyzing Middle Eastern theater play. As part of this class, I conducted a presentation in which I talked about the use of wit and humor throughout the history of Middle Eastern theater. When I began taking theater classes, I felt smart for the first time. In other fields of study, there seemed to be right and wrong answers, but in theater, there was never a single correct answer; instead, there were endless possibilities for answering a question.

Throughout school, I worked full time as a childcare group leader to help pay for my classes. While working there, I witnessed kids having outbursts and feeling alone, the same way I did when I was a kid. So, I researched fun theater games and applied what I was learning in college to my approach to caring for the kids. The kids were jovial and began connecting with one another soon after, demonstrating how I had created new outlets for them to express themselves. Without my theater course experience, I would not have been able to make this impact. This job experience further qualified me for the opportunity to work as a teacher at the Arlington Center for the Arts, where I taught drama and creative movement.

The experiences I have gained throughout college made me who I am now. It’s been a wild ride full of many experiences, each one adding something special to the picture of my life. From when I was young and beginning my journey with the arts, to taking on various leadership roles as I got older, every moment helped me grow and understand the world better. As I got deeper into the arts, I wanted to take on new challenges.  

Moving forward, I cannot wait for not only what the world has in store for me, but also the arts.

Tips for Managing Stress in College

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By: Adriana Mendez, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

Being a college student can be hard, as you may be balancing school, work, extracurricular activities, and more. A report found that 1 in 3 college students experience high levels of depression and stress.

The effects of stress can show up in both the short-term and long term. Chronic stress triggers a constant “fight-or-flight” response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol which, over time, strain the body.

Considering the negative effects that stress can have on your physical and mental wellness, it’s important to take care of yourself! It may feel tough to prioritize yourself, but doing so can greatly benefit your overall well-being in the long run.

Here are some tips on how to manage your stress:

1. Eat Well 

Equip your body with the nutrients it needs to fight stress. High-fat, high-sugar foods may give quick energy, but they often lead to crashes that heighten anxiety and fatigue. Similarly, too much caffeine can increase your heart rate, cause jitters, and disrupt sleep, making stress harder to manage. Instead, focus on consuming whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which are rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. 

2. Have an Outlet 

Having an outlet is essential, especially when life feels busiest. Taking breaks may seem impossible, but it’s during these stressful times when you need them most. Finding an enjoyable activity like sports, joining a club, painting, drawing, or gardening helps release tension and refresh your mind.

3. Build a Support System 

Surround yourself with uplifting family, friends, or mentors who listen without judgment, and provide honest perspectives. These connections give you a sense of belonging and resilience, helping you face challenges with greater confidence.

4. Make a Plan/Practice Time Management

Getting organized and planning ahead are key to managing responsibilities and lowering stress. Start by prioritizing weekly tasks to set a clear path, then allocate time for studying, work, social activities, and self-care. Scheduling ensures nothing is missed, helping you stay on track with your goals. Remember, time for yourself is vital to prevent burnout and stay motivated. A well-structured plan provides balance and a sense of control, letting you accomplish more each week while maintaining focus and discipline.

If stress gets too high, please know that UMass Lowell offers resources that are here to serve you. Remember, you are not alone. 

On Campus Resources

Off Campus Resources 

Online Resources 

Managing stress is key to staying healthy in college. Prioritizing self-care, building a support network, and practicing good time management can make a big difference. Remember, UMass Lowell offers on-campus and online resources to support you! Please don’t hesitate to reach out and take steps toward a balanced, resilient college experience.

Citations: 

College students and depression – Mayo Clinic Health System

Stress: How it Affects the Body

Anxiety in college: What we know and how to cope – Harvard Health

Making the Most of the Holidays: Fun Tips for Those Living Far From Home

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By: Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader

The holiday season, especially times like Thanksgiving, can feel a bit lonely if you’re an international student or living far from family, but it doesn’t have to be! This is the perfect opportunity to create new traditions, explore local customs, and build lasting friendships. 

Here are some ideas to make your holiday break fun, memorable, and heartwarming—even if your family is miles away:

1. Host a “Friendsgiving”

One of the best ways to feel connected to those around you is by hosting a “friendsgiving.” Invite friends or classmates who might also be sticking around campus or living alone. You don’t have to make a traditional Thanksgiving meal either. Think about potluck-style, where everyone brings their own cultural dish, or try making some fusion dishes together. 

If cooking isn’t your thing, check out local restaurants offering Thanksgiving specials. Many places will let you order a “Thanksgiving to-go” if you reserve early enough. This website includes information about Thanksgiving specials in the Greater Lowell region:

https://lowell.macaronikid.com/articles/5fa9eab21cc92c61be29f0de/where-to-order-a-thanksgiving-dinner-to-go-in-greater-lowell

2. Try Out a Holiday Movie Marathon

Nothing brings the holiday vibes like cozying up to a good movie. Organize a movie marathon with holiday classics, movies from your country, or ones that remind you of home. If you’re with friends, take turns picking movies and make an international movie night out of it!

Tip: You can get free popcorn on Fridays from the Club Hub, located on the 2nd floor of University Crossing!

3. Explore Local Traditions

Thanksgiving and the holiday season come with a lot of unique local traditions. Explore events happening around your area—many towns and cities have parades, light displays, and other festive activities during the holidays. This is a great way to immerse yourself into an unfamiliar culture, and also gives you new stories to share with friends and family when you reconnect.

If the weather’s nice, consider going on a hike or checking out winter festivals. Many communities also have volunteer opportunities over Thanksgiving, which can be a fulfilling way to spend the holiday.

Here are some fun upcoming activities to do in Lowell:

City of Lights
November 30 | Downtown Lowell
Lowell’s annual City of Lights welcomes the holiday season with family-friendly activities, a parade that marches through historic downtown, and the lighting of City Hall.

https://www.lowellcityoflights.org/

Culinary Celebration
December 12 | Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E. Merrimack St
The Culinary Celebration showcases Lowell’s unique and diverse food scene, and features live music.

https://www.lowellma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=891 

4. Set Up Virtual Hangouts with Loved Ones

Even if you’re far away, staying connected with loved ones virtually can still bring the holiday cheer. Schedule a video call with family and friends to share a meal or a special moment together, even if it’s through a screen. You could also coordinate a shared activity, like watching the same movie or playing an online game together. If there’s a traditional dish or drink you all love, prepare it simultaneously for a sense of shared experience.

This website can help you find your favorite virtual hangout idea! https://www.weidner.com/blog/2020/12/03/6-creative-virtual-hangouts-to-try-while-youre-social-distancing/

5. Give Back to Your Community

Many local organizations look for volunteers during the holiday season. Volunteering can help you feel connected to your temporary “home away from home” and give a new sense of purpose to your holidays. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to meet people, learn about the local community, and make a difference!

6. Take Time for Self-Care

With fewer responsibilities over the break, this is the perfect time to practice self-care. Use this opportunity to relax, recharge, and indulge in activities you don’t usually have time for during the school year. Whether it’s catching up on sleep, doing yoga, reading, or spending an afternoon at a local café, treat yourself to things that make you feel relaxed and happy.

One great way to practice self-care is by attending Well-being Events at UMass Lowell: https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/programs-events/.

7. Get Creative with Holiday Crafts or DIY Decor

Decorate your space to bring some holiday spirit home! Get crafty by making simple decorations like paper snowflakes, holiday-themed candles, or a small wreath. Crafting can also be a fun group activity if you have friends around, but even if you’re doing it solo, it’s a calming way to add a little holiday magic to your home.

8. Check Out Local or Campus Events

If you’re on campus, check for any holiday activities the school may be offering. Sometimes, they’ll organize special meals, events, or trips for students who stay over the holidays. If you’re living in a community or city, look up local holiday markets, concerts, or craft fairs—these are perfect places to explore, find gifts, or just enjoy the festive spirit.

Here are some activities/events hosted by RHSA (River Hawks Scholars Academy), an academic success program for first-generation college students at UMass Lowell:​​ https://www.uml.edu/academics/provost-office/student-success/scholars-academy/first-gen-week.aspx

Most importantly, approach the holidays with an open heart and mind. This might not be a traditional Thanksgiving or season spent with family, but it can still be meaningful, fun, and full of new experiences. Try to appreciate these moments as chances to grow, learn, and make beautiful memories of your own.

Even if you’re far from loved ones, the holiday season can still be filled with warmth, joy, and a sense of community. Whether you’re creating a new tradition, exploring the local holiday scene, or connecting virtually with loved ones, there are endless ways to celebrate and make this time of year feel special. So, give these ideas a try and let this holiday season be an experience you’ll remember fondly.

Temperature Check

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By: Nosagiegbon Igiede, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-being Leader

Hello everyone! For those of you who haven’t met me yet, my name is Sai Igiede, and I am a Well-being Leader for the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences. My office hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3 pm in HSS 195! Today, I will be discussing a temperature check.

As a fellow Health Sciences major, I understand how our coursework can be hard. Whether it’s for Human Anatomy and Physiology, or Clinical Chemistry, I’m here to remind you that it’s okay to do mental checks. Here are a few things that help me stay well during the semester: 

  1. Taking a 5-minute break from school 
    • This is important, especially when juggling heavy classes like Anatomy. Sometimes, taking a five minute breather and decompressing after studying not only helps you retain more knowledge, but it can also give you a better outlook on what you are studying. 
  2. Making sure I give myself time to have fun
    • Yes, everyone understands that we are here for a degree. However, it’s important to not rob yourself of some fun time. Whether that includes going to the gym or simply hanging out with friends, making sure you are treating yourself is very important for your overall well-being. 
  3. Talking to friends and family 
    • Communication is key! Making sure you have a good support system, especially in college, is very important. Talking to someone about your week (both the good and bad) helps keep your mental health in check whilst also allowing you to catch up with the people around you.
  4. Getting proper rest and sleep
    •  Losing sleep to study isn’t an effective way to study, as it mainly leans to burn out. I always tell myself to never study past 11-11:30pm, and to simply sleep once it gets this late. Sometimes, over studying doesn’t help either, as it can lead to more stress and overall anxiety.

These suggestions may not work for you, and that is okay! Just know that if you are ever struggling mentally and/or physically, you can always reach out to the many different support systems that we have here at UMass Lowell. 

Here are some of the resources we offer on campus:

  • Counseling Services: Call the Wellness Center (978-934-6800) to book your first counseling appointment 
  • Wellness Center: Located on the 3rd floor of University Crossing 
  • Well-being Leaders: Book an appointment via Calendly (walk-ins are also accepted) https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx
  • Mental Health Crisis Hotline: 855-890-2879
  • And many more !!!

Remember, it is never too late to reach out for help!

Til next time,

Sai 

Breaking Away From Social Media

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By: Faith Kollie, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-Being Leader

As I navigate across campus, I see that everyone is on their phones, whether they are listening to or watching something. Over the last few years, the use of social media has increased dramatically, taking time away from real-world tasks (like studying for an exam) and face-to-face interactions.

Below, I have listed some ways to help you reset and refresh your time on social media. I have given four questions you can consider asking yourself to help you reflect on each section.

1) Set your Priorities: 

Questions: Are there things I’m supposed to be doing that social media is distracting me from? When are these tasks due? What is the urgency of completing these tasks? What are the potential consequences of not completing them?

Solutions: Try to dedicate time to completing your tasks early so that you’re not overwhelmed when due dates roll in. If procrastination is a challenge for you, try breaking large tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks.

2) Participate in Enriching Activities: 

Questions: What activities make me feel relaxed, happy, and fulfilled? Have I tried something new recently? Are there any skills I should develop or improve on? Have I spent time outdoors recently?

Solutions: Replace your time on social media with activities that cleanse your mind, soul, and body. This could include exercising, engaging in spiritual practices, journaling, or exploring new hobbies.              

3) Socialize:

Questions: What are some ways I can communicate with others without using social media? How will people reach me if I’m off social media? How can I stay aware of new trends? How can I connect with friends or family in a meaningful way?

Solutions: Let your friends, family, or colleagues know that you’re taking a break from social media so they can find alternative ways to communicate with you. Try to meet up with these people in person to spend quality time together, which may even help strengthen your relationships. Make plans for activities or trips that you have been wanting to go on with the people in your life—and don’t just make plans, follow through with them!

Taking a break from social media isn’t just beneficial for your well-being—it also helps you to be more productive. It is important to take a cleanse from social media to refresh and recharge yourself. As one of your Well-being Leaders, I am here to help you disconnect and replenish your time from social media by helping you find alternative ways to manage your time. Schedule an appointment with me here!: https://calendly.com/faithkollie01/faith-s-wellbeing-meeting?month=2024-09

How to Stand Up For Yourself

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By: Fahad Alden, College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Well-Being Leader

We learn a lot in school—how to do math, how to read, and how to write in cursive (which, sorry, Ms. Curro, I still can’t do). But one thing we don’t learn is how to stand up for ourselves.

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot beyond how to give the perfect handshake or how most meetings could’ve been emails. The biggest lesson I’ve learned as an adult? The importance of standing up for yourself.

I could tell you about all the lessons I had to learn the hard way, but here’s the most important one: the importance of standing up for yourself because no one else is going to. When we are young, we are often told not to be bystanders and to stand up for others. I’ve noticed, however, that as we get older, this message gets lost in translation, leaving it up to us to stand up for ourselves. 

The first step to learning how to stand up for yourself is to start by identifying your needs and what you won’t tolerate. Knowing your boundaries helps you stay firm in what you will and what you won’t accept from others. For example, I can handle some dark humor, but putting down my interests or throwing me under the bus for something that wasn’t my fault? That’s where I draw the line. I have the right to decide what I tolerate, and by knowing my boundaries, it becomes easier to enforce them. 

It is important to not let others decide your boundaries for you. I had someone in my life that bullied me for years on end, and when others told me to brush it off, it only made things worse, as that person felt entitled to continue their behavior. It also led me to engage in this negative behavior myself, which was not healthy for me. It is important to prevent yourself from reaching a point where you are adding gas to the fire. 

Before you confront the issue, take time for yourself to reflect and prepare what you will say. I’ve never been someone who can talk slowly or calmly when angry—it’s just not in my nature. I’m Iraqi, so I have that fire in me for sure; we’re passionate people… we speak with our hands, we hug, we kiss, and most importantly, we are passionate about injustice. 

Knowing this about me, I try to take a day for myself before I decide to work a situation out with someone. So, I take a moment, calm down, and then explain the situation to them in a reasonable tone. Whether the topic is crude jokes or money owed, expressing why something was hurtful is the most important part. Focusing on “I” statements reassures the person I am speaking to that I am not attacking them, but rather trying to open the dialogue. 

When preparing a message, remember to always be honest. Being real with yourself and others can lighten the load. For example, someone once snapped at me because they were having a bad day. They apologized, and I thanked them for that, but I didn’t say it was okay. It’s never okay to take your frustration out on someone else, and I did not want to enable this behavior by deeming it okay. Transparency is a value I hold close to me, so I try to practice it in my everyday life. 

Don’t say something is fine if it’s not and then explode later. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Easy.

If this article spoke to you, take some time to read through the rest of our blog posts – you might discover another story that speaks to you.

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