The University Counseling Center (UCC) strives to provide an inclusive environment and condemns any acts or beliefs that promote hate, bias, and discrimination.  We condemn the violence and racism committed against members of Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander communities. It is imperative that we continue to support communities that are impacted by social injustices and rise up to our responsibility to do more. 

In the aftermath of experiencing or witnessing racial injustice and violence, one can experience a range of feelings and emotions, such as shock, fear, sadness, anger, grief, helplessness, and/or guilt. We encourage you to contact our office if you (or someone you know) would like support with coping and healing. The University Counseling Center cares and is here for you.

This self-guided virtual Healthy Lakers workshop on racial trauma is intended to provide resources, information, and support to our students of color. Here, you will learn more about identifying symptoms of race-related stress and racial trauma and ways it may impact your mental and physical health. These modules will also guide you through ways to manage racial distress, improve self-care, and learn more about resources available to you at GVSU and the community.

SELF-CARE

1. Take a break from social media and news.
2. Do things that make you feel safe and happy.
3. Acknowledge and validate your own feelings (anger, fear, and sadness are normal responses to racial trauma).
4. Communicate/share your feelings with those who can support you.
5. Plan activities that promote a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
6. Journal your thoughts and feelings.
7. Share personal stories of racial experiences with people you trust.

The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA)

Center for Women and Gender Equity (CWGE)

Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center 

Division of Inclusion and Equity