Well, Bellinghamsters, here we go again. The crisp fall air is here and school is not far behind. Freshman or graduate student, September is a time of transition. The leaves are changing color and we too are shedding our mellow, summer skins. With fall comes the ever-challenging task of finding balance. Between school, work and social life, the days fill up fast, and before we know it, the gloomy rain is upon us. This can affect us not only physically, but mentally. Usually winter is associated with the common cold, but as Pacific Northwest natives, the six-month rainy season is linked with high rates of depression, as well as seasonal affective disorder.
Over the past three years, mental health has become an incredibly prominent part of my daily life. From classes studying mental disorders to the friends and family around me I see struggle with mental illness, it has become all too clear how common these struggles are in our society -- and the lack of recognition they get on a daily basis. This is what encouraged me to join a group of student advocates on campus called THRIVE. THRIVE is a smaller group of Peer Health Educators who seek to provide Western's campus with comprehensive education and information surrounding mental health.
And so, in lieu of another exciting school year, here is a list of resources that could be helpful to anyone, in crisis or not.
THRIVE
Keep your eye out for events and programs put on by THRIVE throughout the year. These range from coping skills to use in your daily life to reflections week treats. And don't hesitate to reach out to any member of THRIVE; they have been trained in youth/adolescent mental health and are able to provide information and resources for you or someone you may know.
Western Counseling Services
Old Main 540
(360) 650-3164
Western's Wellness Outreach Center
Viking Union 432
(360) 650-4321
ReachOut.com
Real stories by and about young people dealing with anything from depression to substance abuse, as well as resources for those seeking help.
Suicide Prevention Line
1-800-273-TALK (8225)
1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
