The Benefits of Therapy

By: Fajr Zahid, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-being Leader

Therapy can be highly beneficial in helping to treat a wide array of emotional challenges, including mental health conditions, stress, adverse life events, and trauma. It can also help individuals to better understand themselves and their behavior, which is important when trying to overcome such challenges. While therapy is often thought of as a one-on-one session between a patient and a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, there are many different forms of therapy, each targeting a specific goal or outcome. Here are a few common types:

  1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT aims to help people identify and alter unhealthy behavior patterns and replace them with healthier, more effective behaviors. This type of therapy works well for individuals with mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. 

  1. Interpersonal therapy (IPT)

IPT places an emphasis on improving relationships and helping patients learn to express their emotions in healthy ways, as well as improving communication skills. This therapy type is known to work well for individuals struggling with depression.

  1. Family therapy

Family therapy builds stronger communication between family members, and helps in handling and solving conflicts more effectively. Certain forms of this kind of therapy are often used in cases of eating disorders and bipolar disorder. 

  1. Psychodynamic therapy 

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on helping people better interpret and understand their unconscious emotions and feelings, which may be affecting their mental well-being and behavior patterns. 

  1. Art therapy

Art therapy helps people express their emotions and promotes healing through art forms such as drawing/painting, music, and dance. 

It is important to find the right fit for yourself when beginning your journey with therapy. It may take some trial and error before you find what type of therapy works best for you. While it takes time and patience to begin seeing improvements in your struggling areas, there are many potential benefits to utilizing therapy as a form of treatment for your mental health concerns. These benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Increased strength and resilience against fears and mental struggles
  • Overcoming negative/unhealthy behaviors, attitudes, or coping mechanisms
  • Improved relationships and communication skills
  • Finding relief and peace among difficult life events
  • Boosted self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Newfound knowledge to handle strong emotions, such as grief or anger
  • Healing from past traumas

If you often find yourself struggling with mental health and experience difficulty overcoming these struggles, talking to a therapist or counselor could be of great benefit to you. It is important to keep an open mind and to remain patient throughout your journey, as it may take time to adjust and find your best fit (in terms of both your provider and the type of therapy). I hope you found this article to be useful, and that you are able to apply some of the things I mentioned to improve your own well-being. 🙂

Resources:

https://www.mhanational.org/therapy

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/psychotherapy

Types of Breaks to Help With Studying

By: Mia Andrade, Kennedy College of Sciences Well-being Leader

As the semester is approaching an end, it is important to keep up with assignments and all that comes your way. Breaks are essential in keeping you refreshed and maintaining that momentum to finish your semester off strong. When deciding to take a break from studying, it can help to start by asking yourself, “What do I want out of my break?” Does it help you relax? Does it excite or challenge you? Effective breaks are important and will leave you feeling revitalized and motivated to study. 

There are four different types of breaks that may help when you need to take your mind off studying: 

  1. Get creative. 

Creative activities come with many potential benefits. They can help you improve your memory, exercise your right brain, give your prefrontal cortex a break, and help your brain produce dopamine. Some suggestions may be:

  • Setting a new goal
  • Learning something new
  • Allowing yourself to daydream
  1. Move. 

All types of movement are a great way to take a break. Moving around and completing a small task helps build productivity and motivation to continue studying. Moving around also improves alertness and attention span. Sometimes changing the setting you are in during a study session can help avoid boredom and produce calming effects. Some activities you can try are:

  • Changing your environment
  • Completing a small chore
  • Going for a walk
  1. Nourish your body and mind. 

Taking care of your body and mind is essential to foster a productive study session. Its many benefits include stress relief, increased productivity, and increased attentivity. This is my favorite type of break to take! As a pre-med student, most of my time is devoted to studying and completing assignments. I find the nourishment of my body and mind crucial to helping me excel in my academics. Naps have to be my favorite. Some ways I would suggest accomplishing this type of rest may be:

  • Meditating
  • Taking a power nap
  • Listening to music
  • Having a snack
  1. Socialize. By socializing with other people, you create a positive emotional state for yourself. You feel socially connected to others and can take your mind off studying for some time before getting back into the game. Some ways you can utilize your break to socialize may be:
  • Calling a friend or family member to catch up
  • Going to the dining hall to meet up with friends

Overall, taking breaks in between studying is important in maintaining your well-being. As students, we need to prioritize breaks between studying and classes to allow our bodies and brains to reset and avoid burnout. Taking care of yourself is top priority!

Standing Tall: My Journey Against Peer Pressure

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

As I stepped onto UMass Lowell’s campus for the first time, a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation surrounded me. The prospect of newfound freedom and endless possibilities seemed exhilarating, but little did I know that along with this newfound independence would come relentless pressure.

The first few weeks passed in a blur, between orientation events and late-night dorm room gatherings. It wasn’t long before I found myself surrounded by peers who seemed to effortlessly navigate the social scene, their confidence fueled by the allure of alcohol and drugs.

At first, I brushed off the subtle hints and invitations, eager to find my place without compromising my values. But as the days turned into weeks, the pressure to partake in the party culture became increasingly difficult to ignore. It seemed like everywhere I turned, there was another invitation, another opportunity to join in and let loose.

I watched as friends and acquaintances succumbed to the temptation, their inhibitions melting away with each sip of alcohol or puff of smoke. Part of me longed to join them, to shed my reservations and immerse myself in the euphoria of the moment. But deep down, I knew that giving in would betray the principles I held dear to.

As the pressure mounted, I found myself grappling with doubt and uncertainty. Was I missing out on the quintessential college experience by abstaining from alcohol and drugs? Would I ever truly belong if I didn’t conform to the expectations of those around me?

But then, in a moment of clarity, I realized that my worth wasn’t defined by the choices I made or the substances I consumed. My strength lay in my ability to stand firm in the face of adversity, to chart my own course despite the prevailing currents of peer pressure.

I chose to stay away from peer pressure for several reasons:

Personal Values: I have strong personal values that prioritize health, safety, and integrity.

Academic Goals: Maintaining focus on my academic goals is paramount, and avoiding substance-use helps me stay on track.

Long-Term Well-Being: I recognize the long-term consequences of alcohol and drug abuse and prioritize my physical and mental well-being.

Self-Respect: By staying true to myself and my principles, I cultivate a sense of self-respect and self-confidence.

Positive Relationships: Surrounding myself with friends who respect my choices fosters genuine and positive relationships.

Legal Concerns: I am aware of the legal ramifications of underage drinking and drug possession and choose to avoid legal trouble.

Role Model: I aspire to be a role model for others and demonstrate that it’s possible to have a fulfilling college experience without succumbing to peer pressure.

With such considerations in mind, I began to assertively decline invitations to parties and gatherings where alcohol and drugs were the focal point. I surrounded myself with friends who respect my decisions and support my journey, finding solace in their unwavering encouragement.

As time went on, I discovered that there were countless ways to find joy and fulfillment in college beyond the confines of substance use. From hiking adventures to late-night study sessions, I embraced each opportunity to connect with others and create meaningful memories.

Looking back on my college experience, I am filled with pride knowing that I stayed true to myself in the face of adversity. While the allure of peer pressure may have been strong, it was no match for the strength of my convictions and the support of those who stood by my side.

Today, as I reflect on the journey that brought me to where I am, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the person I have become. Standing tall against peer pressure was no easy feat, but it was undoubtedly one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made.

Emotional Freedom: the Bad Habit of Keeping Your Feelings Bottled Up

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

Why outward self-expression benefits more than just your state of mind

“There was a point where I found myself looking out for people who never cared for me, betrayed me, and didn’t support me.”

Sound familiar?

If you’re like me, you’ve interacted with many people in different capacities, whether friends, lovers, or colleagues. And if you struggle with being a people pleaser, chances are high that you’ve become accustomed to putting the feelings of others ahead of your own.

Even though society oddly praises selflessness for shelving your own emotions in favor of sparing someone else’s, repeatedly assuaging the pain of others while allowing your feelings to be neglected and frequently ignored can have long-lasting and detrimental effects on your psyche.

Suffering In Silence

Being polite is in my DNA. It’s been ingrained in me since childhood to always put on a cheerful demeanor,take the high road, and smile no matter the circumstance. To be fair, a lot of immigrants have this same mindset ingrained in them. This is how we manage memories of war, losing family and how we grasp losing our homeland.

This mindset lingreded  with me as I entered university and the workforce. Being positive or a “hype man” ended up being a main  compliment if not only I would get  Which caused me to associate it with my identity. It is because of this that I wear  “positivity” like a T-shirt, constantly swallowing my sadness to not burden anyone else with it.

By the grace of God, David, a friend of mine, entered my life a year ago. He has allowed me to express who I am without judgment or the desire for me to always be cheery. He taught me that we are not meant to continuously be the rock for everyone in our circle without having anyone to lean on.

Reveling In Self-Expression

I never thought that pouring myself into my creative projects would be the main catalyst to helping me break down my walls, allowing me to fully express myself in ways I’ve never experienced. Pouring yourself into creative work, such as art, writing, or music, is healing because it cathartically releases emotions. Resultantly, you get the end product made out of something dark turned into something beautiful.

I learned that suppressing my feelings only led to being treated like a doormat and contributed to my heightened levels of anxiety, stress, and anger.

Living Out Loud

Unlocking your feelings will open the doors to a newfound freedom that will help improve your communication and build your self-esteem

 You begin to learn the difference between exhibiting decorum when appropriate and completely disregarding your own feelings, growing more resentful as time goes on. Suddenly, you wake up knowing your worth.

 Mastering the art of vulnerability is not an overnight process, so start slow, stay the course, and if you’re in need of a little musical therapy by The Weeknd to get you through the tough times, they’ve got you covered. 

What is it about music that opens us up in ways that no one can?It allows us to feel less alone and more connected to humanity. No matter your age, race or gender we are all angry, sad or jealous at times. It is better to embrace these emotions than act as if they do not exist.

Thank you for reading, and I invite you to check other articles and stay connected for future ones. 

Link:  https://www.pinterest.com/Wicked_Moose/

Living With Anxiety

By: Julia Yeadon, College of Fine Arts Humanities and Social Sciences Well-being Leader

Imagine this: your palms are sweating, your heart racing, your chest tightening, throat closing, fighting for a breath of air – This is the experience of many individuals struggling with anxiety that deeply impacts their quality of life. When asked what anxiety is by someone who has not lived with it, I struggle to fully capture its daunting and exhausting qualities with a simple definition. It feels different each day. Some days are easy to manage and other days feel impossible to get through. Some days it feels like constant worrying and tension. Other days feel so intense with fear that it is inescapable. Some days a multitude of triggers stack on top of one another until everything comes crumbling down. Other days the worrying and fear have no clear reason. 

I have struggled with anxiety since elementary school. I remember the constant stomach aches and intense feeling of worry that kept me up every night. I remember experiencing sudden rushes of anxiety when leaving the house and when a test was placed in front of me at school. I remember avoiding the people and things I loved because I thought it would prevent an anxiety attack. I still experience most of this today.

For many years, I accepted that life would always be difficult with anxiety. I accepted that sometimes I would need to cancel plans to avoid social situations and hide at home where I felt most comfortable. I accepted not going to the mall, not going to that birthday party, not going to that concert, not living my life as I should have been all along. For those in the same place I was years ago, I want to tell you that life can be just as beautiful with anxiety, but it takes some work and consistency. Oftentimes, this may mean therapy, medication, or both, but there are also a number of self-help tools that can limit the symptoms as well. I would like to share some of those that I have learned over the past few years (many of which I discovered in college):

  1. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

I love my morning coffee, but I notice that days where I have more than one coffee or consume other caffeinated beverages often increases my anxiety. You don’t need to completely cut coffee out of your diet, but consider the amount of caffeine you are consuming and decaffeinated options during more difficult days. In addition, days where I am experiencing more intense levels of anxiety are often worsened by consumption of alcohol. Try eliminating or decreasing caffeine and alcohol intake to see how this can affect your anxiety.

  1. Try meditation and breathing exercises.

During the start of college, I experienced a spike in my anxiety. I was having anxiety attacks more often and struggled to control them. I struggled to sleep as worries rushed through my mind the second my head hit the pillow each night. I was desperate to find anything that helped. I remember searching online for ways to ease an anxiety attack and I found meditation videos on YouTube. Thus, I began listening to short videos before bed and whenever I began to feel symptoms of an anxiety attack arise. I also found breathing techniques during my search, suggesting the 3-3-3 technique, in which you breathe in for 3 seconds, hold for 3 seconds, and release for 3 seconds. I recently tried yoga (which includes components of both meditation and breathing exercises) and have seen significant improvement. The thought of this sounded silly and useless at first, but I found that I can control my thoughts and my breathing.

  1. Stay active in your mind and body.

During my sophomore year of college, I began consistently weightlifting at the gym and felt immediate relief from anxiety. Physical exercise can look many different ways – running, going for walks, riding a bike, swimming, dancing, basketball, pilates, or yoga. Whatever way (or ways) you enjoy most, try to do it daily. Staying active physically decreases tension, relieves stress, and releases endorphins that enhance your mood. In addition, it is important to allow your mind to be active. Many individuals try to cope with their anxiety by pushing away worrying thoughts, and while distracting yourself can help temporarily, many of these thoughts return later on. Instead, try writing down these thoughts. After writing them down on a piece of paper, crumple it, tear it up, or burn it (safely, of course) to help yourself let go of these worries.

  1. Use the ice trick.

When I first started college, all I knew about easing anxiety attacks was to focus on breathing until one of my roommates shared a trick with me as she noticed me experiencing an anxiety attack one day. She took two ice packs from the freezer and held one to my ankle and the other to the back of my neck. Within seconds, the anxiety attack had passed. I asked her how it worked and she explained that the brain shifts focus between the two separate areas of the body, distracting the mind from the feeling of panic. This trick has yet to fail me.

  1. Don’t let yourself hide.

I have struggled with this for as long as I can remember, and, unfortunately, I sometimes still succumb to the idea of comfort through being alone in my own space. I often feel that when I am anxious, being in social settings will be too overstimulating, and, even worse, I fear experiencing an anxiety attack in public with nowhere to hide. But, I began forcing myself to attend those plans I had with my friends and I soon realized that surrounding myself with those who I love actually eases my anxiety. I also found that many of my friends live with anxiety too and could share what helps them. It saddens me to realize how much I have missed out on throughout the years due to my anxiety. Some days, I still choose to cancel plans and stay at home, but I try my best to allow the thought of missing out on making memories with loved ones to push myself to follow through with plans. 

If there is one thing you take from this, please know that your anxiety does not have to control you. You have the power to live a happy and fulfilling life despite the challenges that come with anxiety. While the suggestions above derive from my personal experiences, there are many other individuals eager to help. Please view a list of on-campus resources below to help you gain control of your anxiety:

Film Review of Cléo from 5 to 7

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

In Agnès Varda’s film, Cléo from 5 to 7, Cleo is a popular and sensational young singer. Throughout the story, she is anxious about her potential cancer diagnosis.

The film’s organization of looks within the scene plays a crucial role in conveying the protagonist’s inner turmoil and existential crisis. The film diverges from classical Hollywood norms in its treatment of background characters—older men in cafes, women posing for pictures, musicians playing instruments—who are not merely decorative but are given depth and subjectivity. The film depicts older men with their own concerns and conflicts, young women who balance modeling as well as performing with dignity and respect, and musicians performing music and art. This approach humanizes them, portraying their inner lives and concerns, breaking away from the traditional objectification often seen in classical Hollywood cinema, and allowing each character a moment in the spotlight.

The scene balances spectacle and narrative through its meticulous attention to detail and the portrayal of Cléo’s anxieties. The fast and intense cuts, along with unexpected shifts in perspective, mirror Cléo’s state of mind, emphasizing her anxiety and uncertainty about her cancer diagnosis like a punch in the gut. Cléo grapples with her impending fate while staring down the barrel of mortality.

Her characterization as a French pop singer evokes modern celebrity consumerism and celebrity obsession. Itdepicts “celebrity-narcissism, [and with[ her taste for Tarot readings and various other superstitious signs, Cléo could well be a Paris Hilton-type, plugged into New Age fads” (Martin, 2015). As she contemplates her existence, her vanity relaxes as her anxieties swell (Hutchinson, n.d.). This becomes clear when “she discards her whipped-cream wig and polka dots for a simple black shift. She performs less and feels more” (Hutchinson, n.d.).

The film’s mode of address transcends assumptions about the spectator’s gender, encouraging empathy and identification with Cléo’s struggles. While it acknowledges the male gaze inherent in French New Wave cinema, it also flips the script by boldly portraying Cléo as a complex and multidimensional character, rather than a mere object of desire. The scene privileges narrative depth over fetishistic scopophilia, focusing on Cléo’s emotional journey rather than exploiting her physical appearance for voyeuristic pleasure.

References:

Hutchinson, P. (n.d.). BFI – Cleo from 5 to 7. BFI. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.bfi.org.uk/film/7463ef92-3d4f-5cba-a9a5-5bf971fd2238/cleo-from-5-to-7

Martin, A. (2015, March). Cleo from 5 to 7. Film Critic. https://www.filmcritic.com.au/reviews/c/cleo_57.html

Overcoming the “People-Pleasing” Mindset

By: Fajr Zahid, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-being Leader 

Do you find yourself constantly trying to please those around you and maybe even neglecting your own thoughts and feelings in order to do so? Or do you struggle to confront someone when you feel they have wronged or hurt you, in fear that you may come off as being rude or overbearing? While I’m sure many of us have found ourselves in scenarios where we felt the need to sacrifice our voices or opinions, or where we did not feel comfortable saying “no” to someone, constantly engaging in this type of behavior can be quite harmful to your emotional, or sometimes even physical, well-being. 

It is part of human nature to want to feel accepted and liked by others, and to act in ways that you believe those around you will be pleased by. However, it is not healthy to sacrifice your wants or needs in order to achieve this acceptance. By going against yourself and suppressing your true emotions, you may be protecting someone else’s feelings, but at the same time, you are neglecting your own. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be perceived as a kind, generous, or easy-going person, but you should not do so at the cost of your well-being and self worth. For instance, if someone mistreats or disrespects you, know that it is okay to stand up for yourself and to communicate your genuine thoughts and feelings. After all, if a person is worthy of being a part of your life, they should be understanding towards your feelings, not dismiss you for expressing them. Or let’s say you are asked to be part of a situation that you are uncomfortable with – it is completely okay to say no. You may fear that you will be judged, looked at differently, or even disliked, but none of these things are as important as protecting yourself and looking after your needs. 

Although it is easier for some than others to overcome the “people-pleasing” mindset, I believe that this is something that everyone is capable of improving on. It might take some time and mental strength, but it is worth it to be able to protect yourself from unwanted situations or interactions. Here are some things I’ve come to realize over the years that have personally allowed me to overcome the need to always please others: 

  1. Recognizing and establishing your boundaries is important, and it allows you to understand what kind of behavior you will and will not tolerate.
  1. There is a difference between being “rude” or “overbearing” and simply expressing your feelings towards a negative situation or experience. 
  1. You should consider your own wants and needs the same way you consider the wants and needs of others.
  2. The fear of being judged or disliked should not hold you back from standing up for yourself.
  1. You cannot always please everyone – some may approve of you and some may not, but these opinions do not matter as long as you are not putting yourself or anyone else in harm’s way.
  1. It is okay to say no to something that makes you uncomfortable, no matter the person, place, or situation. 

Remember, you can be a kind and likable person without tolerating disrespect or allowing others to cross your boundaries. You should never be afraid of standing up for yourself or voicing your thoughts and opinions because they matter just as much as anyone else’s. If you find yourself often engaging in people-pleasing habits, I hope you found this blog post to be helpful and that you are able to apply some of these friendly tips to your own life!

Valentine’s Day Tips

By: Medi Woldemichael, Manning School of Business Well-being Leader

Valentine’s Day as a college student can often feel like a reminder of your relationship status, especially if you’re single. But let’s be real, there’s no reason why you can’t turn this day into something positive for yourself. So, forget about the pressure to be romantically involved. Here’s a guide to making Valentine’s Day cool and enjoyable, even without a significant other:

Self Care 

Self-care doesn’t have to be all bubble baths and face masks (unless that’s your thing, of course). This Valentine’s Day, think about what genuinely makes you happy. Maybe it’s grabbing a pizza and having a gaming marathon, or perhaps it’s finally starting that book that’s been on your shelf for months. The point is to do something that feels good for you without falling into the trap of stereotypical self-care. 

Connect with Loved Ones 

Valentine’s Day is fundamentally about love, but who says it has to be romantic love? Take this opportunity to catch up with friends or family. You could organize a laid-back hangout, have a virtual movie night, or just send a few texts to let them know you’re thinking about them. It’s about appreciating the connections you have, not lamenting the ones you don’t. 

Plan a Solo Adventure 

One of the freedoms of being single is the ability to go on adventures on your own. Use this day to do something you’ve been wanting to do but haven’t had the opportunity to. That might mean visiting a new coffee shop, going for a long hike, or checking out a local event like the Lowell Winterfest. The idea is to enjoy your own company and the freedom you have to explore on your whim. 

Reflect on Personal Growth 

Instead of getting bogged down by the Valentine’s Day hype, take a moment to think about where you’re at in life and where you want to go. This doesn’t have to be a deep, soul-searching exercise—just a simple check-in with yourself to acknowledge your achievements and set some casual goals for the future. 

Being single doesn’t have to be a disappointment, and it certainly doesn’t have to be emotional. It’s all about shifting your perspective and focusing on what makes you feel good. Whether that’s spending time with loved ones, enjoying your own company, or just treating the day like any other, the key is to do what works for you. Remember, February 14 is just one day out of the year, and it doesn’t define your worth or happiness. So, let’s stay relaxed and turn it into a great day, no matter our relationship status.

Stuck inside this winter? Not anymore!

By: Julia Yeadon, College of Fine Arts Humanities and Social Sciences Well-being Leader

Are you struggling to find fun things to do during the frigid winters in Lowell? Well, you have come to the right place. After three winters here on campus, I have compiled a list of budget-friendly activities that can turn a boring winter day into a day of fun and adventure. Check out my list of top 10 affordable and fun things to do locally this winter:

  1. Mill No. 5

One of my favorite places in Lowell to visit is Mill No. 5. Just a 7-minute drive from campus, you can drink a delicious cup of coffee at Coffee & Cotton or root beer float from Dows Soda Fountain, enjoy a comedy show at the Lunar Theatre, or shop small local businesses or the farmer’s market.

  1. Local Coffee Shops

If you are as addicted to coffee as me, exploring the wide variety of coffee shops in the Greater Lowell area sounds like the perfect task to add to your to-do list. Whether you are looking for the perfect scenery to study on a Sunday morning or a delicious coffee and breakfast destination to visit with friends, there are endless places to try. Some of my top coffee shops close to campus include Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus, Nibbana Cafe, Top Donut, and a new coffee destination that recently opened in Dracut (only a 5-minute drive from East campus), The Perfect Cup.

  1. Local Restaurants 

Looking for some good food? Egg Roll Cafe and the Egyptian Grill food truck are within walking distance of North Campus! Some highly-rated spots located in Downtown Lowell are Viet-Thai, El Potro Mexican Bar and Grill, Life Alive Cafe, and my personal favorite, Mandarin Asian Bistro. 

  1. Axe Throwing

If you’re wanting to try something new and exciting, get a couple of friends together and visit Axe Shack in Lowell! The venue offers axe throwing, knife throwing, cornhole, and pool. Better yet, Groupon frequently offers deals for a more affordable experience. https://axeshack.com/

  1. Ice Skating/Roller Skating

Conway Arena in Nashua, New Hampshire offers public skating several times a week for only $5 with a $4 fee for rental skates. https://conwayarena.com/schedule

Not into ice skating? Try roller skating at Roller Kingdom in Tyngsboro with just a $16 admission and $3 rental skate fee, or roller skate for only $1 on Wednesday nights during the month of February! https://rollerkingdom.com/schedule/tyngsboro-schedule/

  1. Escape Room

Pick between a variety of themed rooms and complete a mission by cracking codes and solving puzzles to successfully escape in 60-minutes. Escapology in Tewksbury offers a fun and thrilling adventure for $38 per person. Keep an eye out for frequent deals and offers on the website! https://www.escapology.com/en/tewksbury-ma

  1. Wellness Wednesdays 

Stressed with school and in need of some relaxation on campus? Attend a Wellness Wednesday, offered at the University Crossing Serenity Center every Wednesday evening from 4pm to 6pm. Some exciting programs we have planned for the semester include DIY Bouquets, Crochet, DIY Blanket Making, Bracelet Making, Game Night, Yoga, Therapy Dogs, and more! https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/programs-events/

  1. Hockey Games

If you are in search of something to do on a Friday or Saturday night, cheer on our River Hawks at the Tsongas Center by East Campus. Students get in for free! Our men’s ice hockey team has several home games scheduled up until the beginning of March that can be found in the following link: https://goriverhawks.com/sports/mens-ice-hockey/schedule/2023-24

In addition, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Boston team has recently announced their home games will take place at Tsongas Center, and tickets can be purchased through Tsongas Center’s website linked below! https://tsongascenter.evenue.net/events/PWHLIG

  1. UML Outdoor Adventure Club 

Have you heard of our Outdoor Adventure Club? This club offers a variety of winter trips including hiking, outdoor ice skating, cross country skiing, snowboarding, and more. Most trips require no prior experience, so don’t be afraid to try something new! Additionally, the majority of day trips are offered for just a small fee of about $15 to $30. https://www.uml.edu/campusrecreation/programs/outdoor-adventure/trip-calendar.aspx#February

  1.  Rock Climbing

Whether you have experience or have never been, Metrorock in Littleton offers indoor rock climbing for a variety of skill levels. Just a 20-minute drive from East Campus, Metrorock is the perfect place to test your agility, endurance, and strength with a whole new hobby. This location offers day passes and rental gear, as well as memberships. On Wednesday nights, Metrorock offers a $20 day pass with only a $5 fee for all rental gear. https://littleton.metrorock.com/

If you find rock climbing to be your new passion, UMass Lowell has its own Indoor Climbing Club with discounted passes! https://www.uml.edu/campusrecreation/programs/club-sports/active-clubs/indoor-climbing/indoor-climbing.aspx

It is especially important to prioritize your physical and mental well-being during the winter months. While the days are shorter with less sunlight, many people feel their moods shift. In addition, the cold weather tends to keep people confined to their homes, limiting time spent with loved ones and contributing to the “winter blues.” Look after your health by checking out a few of these activities with friends! If you’re looking for more events on campus, check out the Engage website with events from all clubs and organizations across campus: https://umasslowellclubs.campuslabs.com/engage/events

The Dark Side Of Leadership: Overcoming Hidden Leadership Challenges All Men Must Know 

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

Hold tight. 

I’ve got a ride for you that could give a Tarantino-script a run for its money.  

I’m exposing the hidden pitfalls, unmasking the art of dodging cheap shots, and rebuilding you from a lone wolf to the leader of the pack.

  1. Finding Your Tribe: The Quest for Authenticity

 Navigating the labyrinth of adulthood and leadership simultaneously is a Herculean task. The world’s stage often hosts actors who, despite their lofty positions, are merely social climbers, a realization that continues to astound me. Some of these individuals around my age  perceived power as a pledge to an elite group , a pedestal to flaunt their supremacy and climb the social ladder.   

As a leader, the temptation to conform is omnipresent. My vibrant energy and candid honesty made me an anomaly among the ‘cool’ elected officials, akin to Deadpool amidst soccer moms. The allure of joining this elite group was strong, yet I resisted.

Instead, I blazed my own trail, seeking genuine connections over superficial alliances. My tribe –  – diverse yet harmonious, provided me with unwavering support and candid guidance.

They instilled in me the true essence of leadership: remaining true to oneself, fostering a supportive tribe, and providing unvarnished reality checks. It’s time to discard the mask and script and embrace your authentic leadership style. Ultimately, it’s the lives you’ve impacted, the differences you’ve made, and the stories forged in authenticity that truly matter.

  1. The Identity Crisis: Beyond the Titles

In the grand theater of life, we often find ourselves playing roles that are not our own, especially those in positions of leadership. The fear of pausing, of taking a moment to breathe, becomes a terrifying prospect. You worry that if you stop, even for a moment, you might lose an integral part of your identity.

 But here’s the truth: life is about balance. Just as socializing or romance shouldn’t be your only focus, neither should work. I recall my first identity crisis with startling clarity. It was a time when I questioned who I was beyond my titles and responsibilities. I found myself hiding my true self, censoring my stories and interviews, even altering my appearance and behavior out of fear of judgment or ridicule. Then came the turning point: rewatching Fight Club and hearing Tyler Durden’s wake-up call: “You’re NOT your damn job.” That was the game-changer, the adrenaline shot to the heart that kick-started my revival.

Once you engrave that truth into your mind, you stop chasing illusions and start embracing raw authenticity. You strip down to the bare essence of YOU. Celebrate your eccentricities, your hobbies, your passions—ignore the skeptics.Remember this: the only lifelong contract you’ll ever sign is with yourself.  When I finally embraced my true self, I found that I connected with more people and produced better work than ever before. So take it from me: embrace the adventure of self-discovery and authenticity—it’s worth every step.

Conclusion

Embrace your individuality, find your tribe, bear your scars, and let the world marvel at your fireworks. 

Remember, stepping up to leadership isn’t about changing who you are but refining yourself and using your position to affect real change. Cheers to you as you begin to navigate the course of leadership. 

Seize the day, not just for yourself but for those who believe in you.