As the seasons begin to shift and west Michigan winter takes hold, you may feel a shift in yourself as well. Many of us feel the winter blues at some point during the colder months. The winter blues can feel like lower energy levels and heightened fatigue, difficulty focusing on schoolwork, a lack of motivation, or even just not enjoying things you once did. To manage the impact winter can have on you effectively, try out some of the University Counseling Center's strategies:

• Head into it with a positive mindset. Try making a winter bucket list including all the best parts of a sometimes dreary season, and have fun ticking the items off while making memories to last!
• Alter your environment. Open the curtains during daylight hours, add a sun therapy lamp, try out an electric blanket, or switch out your go-to iced coffee order for a warming tea or hot chocolate.
• Stay active. Moving your body, stimulating your mind, and maintaining your social connections are all important ways to ensure your wellbeing is prioritized this winter!

Is it more than just the Winter Blues?

Some students may experience symptoms of depression during the colder months including lack of interest in things that were once enjoyable, significant changes in sleep patterns, significant changes in eating behaviors, and overwhelming feelings of sadness or hopelessness. This is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you or someone you know is struggling with SAD, the University Counseling Center is here to support you.

With final exams quickly approaching, students may experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress. This, while uncomfortable, is completely normal! You are certainly not alone in this experience, and there are resources all across campus that are available to support you through this challenging time. Try some of the University Counseling Center's strategies below to stay well and finish the semester off strong!

• Know your resources. Check out the Exam Cram website to access services like the Student Academic Success Center, updated hours for the University Libraries, and events hosted by the Divison of Student Affairs!
• Stick to your routine. Now is not the time to switch up what has been working for you all semester. Prioritizing sleep, continuing your workout schedule, and keeping with your weekly coffee date with a friend are all great ways to maintain your wellness.
• Practice self-compassion. During final exams, some students may experience repetitive negative thoughts that exacerbate feelings of anxiety, and sometimes, depression. Practicing positive self-talk, taking deep breaths before a big test, and approaching difficult projects with a growth mindset are all great ways to take the next couple weeks in stride.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling socially, or just not feeling like yourself? Togetherall can help. Togetherall is a safe, anonymous, online peer to peer community for mental health support. Log on to connect with others, explore mental health resources, journal about your experience, or take a course to learn new skills for managing your emotions. If your mental health concerns become difficult to manage or you need more support, contact the University Counseling Center to schedule an appointment.

The United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 after World War II, serving a a blueprint for defining human rights on a universal level across the world.

Article 1 and 2 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights reads:

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood. Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Furthermore, no distinction shall be made on the basis of the political, jurisdictional or international status of the country or territory to which a person belongs, whether it be independent, trust, non-self-governing or under any other limitation of sovereignty.”

The University Counseling Center embraces a mission, vision, and guiding principles that align with the values of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The UCC strives to provide inclusive, accessible, and culturally competent services and resources for GVSU students.

Food is a basic need for both our physical and mental health, but approximately 20% of students attending a public university are affected by food insecurity according to the 2019-2020 National Postsecondary Student Aid Study.

If you or another student is experiencing food insecurity, know that Grand Valley is here to help. Visit Replenish for free access to food and other basic needs. Fill out a Care Report to connect with a member of the Care Team for support in navigating non-academic concerns, and connect with the University Counseling Center to support your mental health.

Also visit the Feeding America West Michigan website to learn more about food insecurity and to find emergency supplemental food near you.