Health Promotion and Wellness Activities

(OR) Crafts & Conversation

Join Crafts and Conversation, where we'll sit down for a conversation aiming to break down stigma and normalize taking action to support our mental health, all while doing a creative art activity! Don't miss out on this chance to take a break, recharge your mind, and nurture your creativity.

#NoStigmaNovember

Movember Trivia Night at the Outpost

Student Health and Wellness and the Outpost are teaming up for Movember Trivia Night! Join us for an evening of fun, food, and friendly competition as we put your knowledge to the test. Expect a mix of general trivia with a few questions focused on men’s mental health and wellbeing as part of No Stigma November.

Bring your friends, grab a table, and compete for a chance to win Student Health and Wellness swag and other wellness-themed prizes.

Managing Stress and Anxiety: Tips for Everyday Life

Stress and anxiety are something we all experience at different points in our lives. Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time, starting a new project, or adjusting to a big change, it’s normal to feel a bit on edge. But when these feelings become constant, they can affect your daily life. Understanding how stress and anxiety work and how to manage them can help you feel more in control.

Understanding Stress vs. Anxiety

Stress usually comes from an external source, like a looming deadline, a tough exam, or a disagreement with a friend. It tends to fade once the situation is resolved.

Anxiety, on the other hand, can feel constant, even in situations that aren’t actually threatening. It often shows up as persistent worry, tension, or a sense of dread that makes daily life more challenging.

Recognize Your Triggers

A great first step in managing stress is identifying what sets it off. Is it social pressure, lack of sleep, or a busy schedule? Once you know your triggers, you can take steps to minimize them or respond more effectively.

Practical Tips for Managing Stress

Develop a Gratitude Practice 

Focusing on what’s going well in your life can help put challenges in perspective. Try writing down three things you’re grateful for each day.

Create Predictability

Feeling out of control often increases stress. Build a routine with small, manageable steps to tackle problems. Focus on what you can control rather than what you can’t.

Build Your Support System

Having someone to talk to during tough times can make a huge difference. Reach out to friends, family, or campus support services when you need help.

Manage Acute Stress

Try techniques like deep breathing, positive self-talk, or mental rehearsal—visualizing yourself handling a challenging situation successfully. These strategies can help your body and mind return to calm.

Embrace Positive Stress and Resilience

Not all stress is bad. “Eustress” is the type of stress that motivates and excites you, like preparing for a performance or working toward a personal goal.

Building resilience, the ability to adapt in the face of challenges, can help you bounce back stronger and more confident.

Mindfulness and Flow

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or immersive activities you enjoy, can reduce stress and anxiety.

Flow is a state where you’re completely absorbed in what you’re doing, losing track of time and self-consciousness. Achieving flow can improve focus, motivation, and overall well-being.

Seek Support When Needed

If stress or anxiety starts interfering with your daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Familiarizing yourself with available resources can make a big difference.

Bottom Line

Stress and anxiety are part of life, but they don’t have to control you. By identifying triggers, practicing mindfulness, and building strong support systems, you can manage stress effectively and build resilience for the future.

Small steps every day can make a big difference.

Need Support on Campus?

If you want to seek professional support, visit Lakehead University Student Health & Wellness for more information on the supports available on campus and to book an appointment.

 Reem Alfarwan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

(OR) World Kindness Day

Today is World Kindness Day, so it is a great opportunity to send some love and kindness to someone you appreciate. Drop by the Orsi Learning Commons to:

- make a kindness bracelet

- write a gratitude card

- make a kindness care kit

- learn a self-kindness practice

(OR) Crafts and Conversation

Join Crafts and Conversation, where we'll sit down for a conversation aiming to break down stigma and normalize taking action to support our mental health, all while doing a creative art activity! Don't miss out on this chance to take a break, recharge your mind, and nurture your creativity.

#NoStigmaNovember

(OR) Crafts and Conversation

Join Crafts and Conversation, and help us kick off Lakehead International's winter clothing drive! Today's activity: mitten making! We'll be repurposing old sweaters and blankets to make hand-made mittens.  You can make a pair for yourself, give a pair as a gift, and/or make a pair to contribute to the winter clothing drive. Don't miss out on this chance to take a break, recharge your mind, and nurture your creativity.

#NoStigmaNovember

(OR) Crafts and Conversation

Join Crafts and Conversation, where we'll sit down for a conversation aiming to break down stigma and normalize taking action to support our mental health, all while doing a creative art activity! Don't miss out on this chance to take a break, recharge your mind, and nurture your creativity.

#NoStigmaNovember

(OR) Randomizer with the Responsible Gambling Council

Come test your skills against the Randomizer in Simcoe Hall. The Responsible Gambling Council is presenting its new program, the Randomizer, for young adults with an interactive kiosk, specially staffed display and fantastic giveaways, including three scholarship awards. Drop by, say hello and see if you have the skills to #BeatTheRandomizer!

(OR) Time and Stress Management

University life can be busy and demanding — balancing classes, assignments, work, and personal commitments can quickly become overwhelming. Drop by to learn some practical strategies for managing time effectively, recognizing when you've taken on too much, and developing healthy ways to cope with stress. This event is offered collaboratively by Student Health and Wellness and the Student Success Centre as part of No Stigma November 

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