Category Archives: Events

Education, Events, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

March is Women’s History Month!

March is Women’s History Month, a celebration dedicated to the cultural, societal and historical advancements made by women.  Beginning in 1978 in Santa Rosa, California as “Women’s History Week” through efforts of the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women, this recognition blossomed into an annual celebration through presidential proclamations since 1987.

Historically,  women’s presence and contributions to daily society largely went unrecognized or uncredited, and at best, attributed to an anonymous source.  This continued even during major events, like wars and economic despair, where without the help from women (even in the background), missions would been unsuccessful or further detriment would have been experienced by many.

Take a moment to check out these events to learn more about amazing women who have helped shape our world, and those who continue to propel us forward.  Also learn about these key dates in the movement to celebrate women and their accomplishments.

Celebrate the women in your life, today!

 

Education, Events, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

It’s Black History Month!

The theme for Black History Month 2022 according to the Association For the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is Black Health and Wellness, giving special focus on the contributions of Black people to Western medicine.  Black people have served as doulas, midwives, doctors, engineers, scientists, and more, leading to the advancement of medicines and medical techniques.  There have even been long-lasting advancements on the medical field through the studies of DNA from contributors like Henrietta Lacks, albeit controversial.  This theme also highlights the health disparities that continue today, and how to remove these roadblocks for the betterment of Black people and general society.

This MasterClass on Black History Month is available for free during this month, and NOVA is offering a wide array of programming on the importance of Black history, as well as Black futures.

Check out President Biden’s Proclamation on National Black History Month, NPR’s report on how this month’s recognition came about, and PBS’ list of films and clips to watch and stream on a myriad of Black Americans who have made their mark.

Taking the opportunities to learn history, gain perspectives, and join initiatives is a great way to grow individually, as well as a society.  After all, Black history is American History! ✊🏿 🇺🇸

Events, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health, Tips

Happy Holidays from OWMH

Happy Holidays Script Text with Holiday Evergreen Branches and Red Berries on Side Over Rustic Wood Background

We want to remind you of the College closure from December 24, 2021, reopening on January 3, 2022.  All campus operations are suspended, and facilities will be closed during this time.

As we near the end of 2021, we hope you have an opportunity to rest, spend time with love ones, engage in your favorite activities, take time for personal wellness and respite, and are energized for the new year.

On behalf of Northern Virginia Community College, happy holidays to you and yours!

-The Office of Wellness and Mental Health Team

If you need immediate support/assistance, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255, or call 911.

Events, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health, Tips

November is National Family Caregivers Month

As the Thanksgiving holiday is among us, many of us are planning to enjoy some time with our loved ones.  Many are also in a position of supporting children, their parents, or both.  Some provide support to neighbors, friends, or in helping professions.  Taking care of others is often a part-time or full-time duty on top of employment.  November is National Family Caregivers Month, where those who have the role of caregiver are encouraged to focus on their own mental health and wellness, which will allow them to be present for others.

Senior couple and daughter having fun

Recognition is not always there for these daily heroes, so this month is for them!  The Caregiver Action Network (CAN) helped bring about the observance of this month, and is encouraging caregivers engage in activities and causes they are passionate about.  Check out President Biden’s NFCM proclamation for National Family Caregivers Month.

Mental Health America (MHA) has created a free toolkit of resources and information to support the needs of caregivers, and those they serve.  There are screeners, data sheets, activities, and initiatives to utilize.  Also check out these tips from CAN below, as well as their toolkit online!

As we enter this holiday season, please remember to take care of yourself, and encourage those in your life in caregivers roles to do the same.  Use hastags #NFCMonth and #CaregiversAND to continue to highlight this important observance!

Events, Mental Health Resources, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health, Tips

Suicide Prevention is On All of Us

September is National Suicide Prevention Month.  Within this month are Suicide Prevention Week from September 5-11, and World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.  With suicide being the tenth leading cause of death in the United States (second among 10-34 year old persons, and fourth for 35-44 year old persons), we need to be more vigilant about improving general mental health, and provide support to one another.

Suicide is not an easy topic to discuss, especially because many people feel that they may accidentally say the wrong thing, push their friend or loved one into hurting themselves, or may implant the suggestion of suicide, but this just isn’t true.  Suicidal thinking is isolative, and knowing that someone loves and supports you nonjudgmentally often is just the support someone needs to hang in there, and seek some help.

There are many notable signs, like in the graphic above, that someone may display when they are dealing with suicidal thinking.  Suicide is also not a spontaneous action, rather, people who attempt or consider attempting to kill themselves have thought about it for some time.  There is a spectrum of consideration for suicide, and when someone has decided to carry out an attempt, they appear more at peace because the anxiety of contending with their pain feels like it’s over.  Even then, it is not too late.  If you see someone suffering, offer your ear.  Compassionate connection is the gateway to addressing pain and trauma, moving a person away from potentially ending his/her/their life.

Some local and national resources include:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
    • Available 24/7
    • 1-800-273-8255, or chat
    • 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish Language)
    • 711 (Deaf or hard of hearing)
    • 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, text 838255, or chat (Veterans)
  • PRS Crisis Link Hotline (Northern Virginia):
    • Available 24/7
    • 703-527-4077 or text CONNECT to 85511
    • 711 (Deaf or hard of hearing)
  • Crisis Text Line:
    • Available 24/7
    • Text HOME to 741741
  • The Trevor Project (LGBT):
    • Available 24/7
    • 1-866-488-7386
    • Text START to 678678
    • TrevorCHAT

Join us in the effort to prevent suicide for all, and check out the #bethe1to campaign!

“Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise.”

Sources:

https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide

Events, Fun, Mental Health Resources, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health, Tips

August is Wellness Month! Tips to Focus on Your Wellness

 

Happy Wellness Month! More than ever, the need to focus on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness is apparent.  With just a few dedicated moments and strategies, you can keep your general wellness on track, lessening the pains and frustrations of life’s challenging moments.

While there are many facets and ways to focus on your wellness, consider focusing on the following, and coming up with a few of your own:

  1. Prioritize sleep.  Not getting restorative sleep sets the tone for your day, and puts your energy and focus at a deficit.  When you can, get an extra half hour or so of rest to prepare you for the next day.
  2. Stay hydrated.  Water consumption is fundamental to many bodily functions and processes, including thinking, movement, clear skin and sleep, so drink up!
  3. Practice gratitude.  We all are striving everyday to grow, and unfortunately, it can be easy to focus on what we do not have.  Instead, reflect on what you do have, and the strides you made to meet your needs and goals.
  4. Get well exams.  Regular check-ups with a doctor or other certified professional supports overall health by giving you a status on your physical wellbeing, as well as areas to focus on, if necessary.  Early intervention is the best intervention!
  5. Incorporate fruits/veggies.  A variety of produce in your daily food consumption not only supports your physical wellness, but they taste great!  Try out a new, colorful fruit/vegetable, or one you decided you did not like a child- maybe you’ll change your mind!
  6. Take a walk/get outside.  Fresh air is a necessity, and a great tool for centering yourself.  Pause and take in the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations around you.
  7. Do something without expectation of something in return.  A great way to take the focus off of yourself, especially when you are not feeling the greatest, is to do a good deed for someone else.  The smile you give to another can bring yours back, too!
  8. Plan for setbacks.  Nothing goes our way 100% of the time, so a good way to prevent feeling devastated when life throws a hardship your way is to prepare for the possibility that tough times may come.  They are temporary; having skills, resources and supports in place will lessen their disruption.
  9. Practice deep breathing.  Have you ever sighed and realized that your jaw or fists are clenched?  Breathing not only supports physical processes, but our emotional and spiritual health as well.  Take a moment to engage in mindful breathing; focus on the present, and let go of the tension or worry you may be experiencing.
  10. Limit screen time.  Turn off the TV, log off social media, put down your phone.  Looking at screens too long is not only unhealthy for your eyes, but you may be engaged in internalizing negative stimuli, such as negative news stories, or people ranting online, and these can zap your mood.  Schedule your screen time to limit your exposure, and engage in some of the tips above!

What’s your favorite way to focus on your wellness?  Find a new strategy, and share it (or your tried and true methods) with a friend today!

Events, Mental Health Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month

July is BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month!  Strength in Communities is the theme for 2021, a focal point to be continued even after this month ends.  This theme highlights those persons that are marginalized within their intersectionality of being a person of color and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.  The more identities one identifies with, the likelier it is they experience a hardship related to discrimination, racism and xenophobia.

Author Bebe Moore Campbell was a mental health advocate that through her personal experiences and writing the book, 72 Hour Hold, brought attention to the disparities experiences by those who are not white as it relates to their mental wellness.  She advocated for services, recognition, and empowerment of those suffering with mental illness, as well as for their family members, especially those in a caregiving role.  In 2007, July was declared Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month by U.S. Congress.

Terminology often changes in order to align with collective values and knowledge gained to minimize alienating others.  The terms used to describe individuals and groups that are non-white are changing because previous terms incidentally failed to realize individuals, and that whole racial groups are not a monolith.  A good rule of thumb is to ask who you are conversing with how they would like to be identified to avoid offending them.

To learn more about BIPOC mental health, check out:

Education, Events, Mental Health Resources, Office of Student Life, Public Safety, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

Self-Injury Awareness Day

March 1 is designated as Self-Injury Awareness Day.  This campaign was born out of the importance of bringing awareness to the acts of self-harm, and to destigmatize their existence.  By acknowledging the acts of self-injury, we can provide empathy and understanding to its sufferers; lessen fear and silent suffering; and encourage education about what self-injury is, why it occurs, and how to address it.

Self-injury differs from suicide attempts as it is not intended to end life, rather, it is an attempt to deal with overwhelming emotions like anger, frustration, and pain.  The cycle of self-injury is marked by an escalation of emotion that one feels out of control of, and they engage in a behavior that causes bodily harm (cutting, burning, scratching, hitting self, piercing skin, etc.) which brings temporary feelings of relief and calm.  This then turns into feelings of guilt and shame, and a lessened effect of the chosen method of self-injury, which may lead to using a more severe method/frequent self-harm, increasing the possibility of ongoing harm and/or accidental death.

Awareness of self-injury provides opportunities for those experiencing pain to learn healthier methods to manage their emotions and crises when they occur with the aim of validating pain while preserving life and instilling hope.  The stigma around mental illness and self-injury further isolates those suffering causing them and their loved ones of their voices because not knowing if and what to say can be detrimental as well.  The Mayo Clinic has a thorough summation of the causes, symptoms, types, implications and methods of support for self-injury.

There is also a newer phenomenon of digital self-harm, wherein one uses memes and other online forms of expression to speak to their pain; pose as others speaking negatively of the poster/cyberbullying the poster; or making repeated commentary about self-injury and self-loathing.  Visibility of these posts and gaining “likes” does not serve to support the individual in their mind, rather, it validates the despair and further serves to encourage self-injury.

Orange is the representative color of self-injury awareness, shown either through the wearing of a ribbon, or of drawings of orange butterflies on the wrist.  You can show your support on March 1 by wearing orange and seeking to learn more about self-injury and how you can intervene on behalf of yourself or others.  If you or someone you know is struggling, please fill out a Student in Need of Assistance Report for support through NOVA CARE teams (within the NOVA community), or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.  If you need immediate assistance due to safety concerns on campus, contact NOVA Police at 703-764-5000 or call 911 (off campus).

Education, Events, Fun, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

Random Acts of Kindness Day

February 17 is Random Acts of Kindness Day (Random Acts of Kindness Week falls February 14-20)!  This day highlights unplanned, heartfelt acts of altruism where individuals or groups can “pay it forward” to others.  It can be something simple like giving a compliment, holding a door, or paying for someone’s cup of coffee; it can also be grand, like giving a donation, volunteering time, or helping someone in immediate need.

The event name is derived from a quote from Anne Herbert, who in 1982 wrote “practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty” on a placemat.   Ms. Herbert was an American author and journalist who published a book named after the quote before passing away in 2015.  The idea has been popularized in media, education institutions, and communities alike.

Especially in this time of high stress, taking care of yourself and others is imperative.  Participating in giving and receiving random acts of kindness can positively impact mood, relationships, foster hope, and a sense of connectedness when so many of us are feeling so far apart.  Acts of kindness can be witnessed or not, but as long as the energy and feeling behind the actions you take come from a place of love and kindness, proceed!  (see graphic above for some suggestions)

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has cool materials to share for this event, like calendars, posters, coloring pages, videos and more.  You can also search for kindness suggestions by subject, such as children, animals, at work or at school.  Provided are suggestions on tips to use all year round.  Check out this additional list of 101 Random Acts of Kindness, and come up with some of your own.  Carve out a few minutes to pass along a bit of kindness today!

Education, Events, Office of Student Life, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

Black History Month 2021

Black History Month (also known as African-American History Month) is celebrated from February 1 to March 1 in the United States and Canada.  Black History Month manifested from Negro History Week, championed by Carter G. Woodson, which began in 1926 during the second week of February.  In 1976, Gerald Ford was the first president to officially recognize Black History Month, which continues today.

The month was established to highlight the contributions of African-Americans, as well as Black history and plights experienced by the African-American community.    This also presents an opportunity for non-Black persons to learn about Black culture, recognize the shortcomings related to equity, equality and recognition of the rights and humanity of Black people, and engage in dialogue, advocacy, and self-reflection.

Learn more about some notable contributors to Black excellence, such as Carter G. Woodson, Maya Angelou, Ruby Bridges, Medgar Evers, Mary McLeod Bethune, Angela Davis, Jesse Jackson, Henrietta Lacks, John Lewis, and James Baldwin.   New names are emerging during current times of social justice reform, like S. Lee Merritt, Ibram X. Kendi, Ijeoma Olou, Ta-Nehisi Coates,  Rachel Cargle, and Stacey Abrams.

“The Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity” is the theme for Black History Month 2021.  Check out ongoing programming from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, Association for the Study of African American Life and History [ASALH] (graphic below), and NOVA’s Student Life (graphic below) happening this month!

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

Sources:

Black History Month, History.com editors, https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month

African-American History Month, Library of Congress, https://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/