The Role of Mental Health

NC State takes a holistic approach to mental health to cultivate a culture of care and wellness within the Wolfpack community. Self-care is crucial in protecting your mental health and there are many strategies to support and maintain your emotional, psychological and social well-being, including staying connected to support systems, exploring relaxing activities and making sleep a priority. 

Being proactive and intentional is at the core of these self-care practices, so finding and utilizing available resources early is essential. The Counseling Center offers individual counseling, group sessions and workshops to help you navigate challenges. Student organizations and campus departments can also request a free education session from Wellness and Recreation to talk about topics like self-care, time management and mindfulness. 

Prioritize Sleep, Nutrition and Physical Activity

The physical element of wellness encompasses everything we do to fuel our body, from the foods we eat to our sleep routine and exercise regimen. Consider what you need to feel energized and ready to tackle the day’s challenges. While NC State offers a plethora of resources for you to “move well,” “eat well” and “be well,” there are many external resources you can utilize at your own pace based on your needs. Explore MyPlate as a loose guideline for nutrition, the Sleep Foundation for resources on making sure your rest is of good quality, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for recommendations related to physical activity. 

Foster Connection Through Social and Community Interactions 

Wellness isn’t just an independent journey, the relationships you build and the community you engage with can help expand your support network. On Wellness Day, consider expanding your community by attending engaging events like the relaxation station hosted by Wellness and Recreation or a paint break with Campus Health.

Money Matters

Financial uncertainty can infiltrate other areas of our well-being and create deep feelings of distress. When considering your financial needs, explore resources that won’t put more strain on your budget. Utilize the filtered resources on the Wolfpack Wellness website to explore “free” options or those included in the cost of tuition. 

Find Fulfillment Through Purpose

Purpose can be fulfilled through our academics, careers or extracurriculars. When set with broader goals, wellness coaching can provide personalized strategies to help manage stress and find balance in daily life, helping you align your daily actions with that larger purpose. On Wellness Day, consider attending the Power of Connection event hosted by the Office of Partnerships and Economic Development. 

Academic advisors and the Academic Success Center can provide the extra boost of confidence you need in the classroom. For international students, there may be additional unique challenges when studying in a new country. NC State’s International Student Support team offers specialized support and is an excellent resource for international students who might need extra guidance. 

Explore Wellness Your Way

Wellness looks different for everyone, but at its core it focuses on the whole individual and all six elements. Get to know yourself, what matters most to you and nurture those needs to support yourself. Don’t forget to explore Wellness Day Your Way and partake in activities that help you thrive!