Dear students,

Dr. Lindsey Mortenson, our chief mental health officer, likes to use the phrase, “connection is protection.” This is a concise reminder that our individual well-being is intricately connected to our sense of belonging and our relationships to people, places, and traditions.

If you feel like you might benefit from more connection this semester, here are just a few opportunities to consider:

  • Sign up for an unlimited Group-X semester pass (available again at a reduced price of $30) and find new ways to exercise and meet people with similar interests.
  • Need a rant session? Connect with a student peer in a laid-back setting to vent and receive support. Peer counselors are trained by CAPS staff to listen and provide resources where needed.
  • Find ways to incorporate more of the arts in your routine through ArtsRx.
  • Join a four-week session on spirituality and mental health for undergrads interested in learning how spirituality and mental health impact each other. Facilitated by CAPS and Religious, Secular and Spiritual Life, people of all spiritual, humanist, religious, or worldview traditions are welcome. 
  • If you are in recovery from an addiction, check out the Collegiate Recovery Program. CRP offers holistic and tailored support—and most importantly, community—for college students in recovery.

Stay healthy, Wolverines,

Robert D. Ernst, M.D.
Chief Health Officer
Associate Vice President for Health and Wellness in Student Life

Health and Wellness Updates

“A Breath of Fresh Air” on February 10
Grab your coats and go outside. Register for this upcoming guided nature experience from Nature Rx and other units. This event takes place rain, snow, or shine. Getting outside year-round is an important part of your well-being.

Big Heart Blood Battle goes until February 26
Donate and you will receive a free Big Heart shirt and a Washtenaw Dairy coupon while supplies last. Additionally, until January 25, donate to be automatically entered in a raffle to win a trip to the Super Bowl.

Drop in for informal counseling through  Let’s Talk
CAPS comes to you! Drop in during a Let’s Talk session for an informal meeting with a CAPS counselor at Spectrum Center, Trotter Multicultural Center, the International Center, and other locations. Check out the schedule to find a session near you.

It’s Not Too Late: Get Your Flu or COVID-19 Vaccine
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines offer important protection against severe illness. They are available at the UHC immunization clinic, along with many others, including vaccines to protect against meningitis and HPV. As a reminder, vaccinations are not covered by the health service fee but are included in most insurance plans or can be paid for out of pocket.