On Tuesday, April 1 the President’s Advisory Council (PAC) hosted DESTRESS with PAC! This event was held to kick off the PAC’s RealTalk Mental Health Conference. From 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., students were welcomed to relax and take a break from their busy schedules in the Greek Lounge of the Miron Student Center. Upon check-in, students were welcomed to choose between a smoothie and acai bowl and pick out stickers with positive phrases. Lynnette Diaz, LPC – Counselor, Amanda Argento, LPC – Counselor, and Meshala Morton – Graduate Counseling Intern of the Kean Counseling Center gave a presentation in the beginning of the event about the resources available for students who need counseling.
The presentation was not only informative but also engaged students by asking them what problems they dealt with in life. It challenged students to recognize when it is time to ask for help.
Diana Abdelazem, a graduate student studying Global Business Administration from Egypt, shared why she decided to come to the De-stress with PAC event.
“I like coloring and plus this a way to de-stress from my anxiety. Coloring makes me feel a little bit relaxed. I focus on coloring instead of my anxiety.”
There were tables filled with coloring books, colored pencils, Play-Doh, and journals. The small setting provided an intimate feel that allowed participants to unwind and have a peaceful moment.
Stephanie Tande, a senior and Psychology and Psychiatric Rehabilitation major from West Africa detailed how her major related to the purpose of the event.
“Like I mentioned before, I’m a Psych and Psychiatric major so mental health is kind of my thing. I always try to find ways to de-stress because I can’t pour into anybody if I don’t pour into myself too,” stated Tande.
“I typically enjoy coming to these types of events, especially in the middle of the day. The end of the semester is approaching too so this is an important time to learn how to de-stress before finals.”
Urooj Ali, a junior and Business Analytics major from Woodbridge stated that mental health is a topic that is important to her, especially as a college student.
“First, I’m a big advocate for mental health and right now there’s a lot of exams going on. I think having something to look forward to, even if it’s like a smoothie or like an acai bowl, is really helpful. It helps me to get through the day, it really brightens my mood. I was able to get information on the mental health resources Kean offers.”
Kean University and PAC prioritize health and well-being. The event acknowledged the issues and difficulties the students on campus go through daily. Students walked away knowing that problems are inevitable, but they can be managed and resolved in a positive way with the help of the resources available on campus.
