Topics in Mental Health
Creating a sustainable culture of mental health and wellbeing is a top priority at the University of Iowa. As part of this effort, university experts provide insight and guidance into the many aspects of how to integrate work and life so we can best care for ourselves while also caring for others.
The Power of Connection
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our lives are busy and our calendars are full. Making time to connect and listen requires an intentional approach. This can help you find yourself in a much more positive frame of mind when you appreciate the people you see throughout the day.
The Power of Empathic Listening
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Each story of adversity underscores the importance of empathic listening. The resiliency that surfaces when people feel seen and heard before moving toward problem-solving is awe-inspiring. While very simple, it can be so profound to listen, seek to understand, and then work with a person to find a solution that works for them.
Trauma-Informed Support
Monday, March 25, 2024
Trauma-informed leadership considers the effect trauma can have on communication and learning, and can help us be better teachers, leaders, and learners.
The Role of Art Appreciation for Mindfulness
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
There is so much beauty in the world. There is joy in seeing drawings on patient doors, artwork created by patient’s siblings and school mates displayed on hospital room walls, a hug of comfort between family members who are navigating a complex hospital admission together. The more we are able to find beauty around us, the more we have opportunities for mindful consideration.
Rethinking the ‘Real World’ in Higher Ed: 3 Strategies for Preparing Students for their Futures
Monday, March 4, 2024
The phrase “real world” is often used to refer to the “professional” world, “adult” world, or life after graduation. But what do we really mean by it? And is this characterization truly beneficial for students?
Masquerading Wisdom
Monday, February 26, 2024
It is important to use our critical thinking skills and sometimes doubt another individual’s motivations. However, having no hope that someone’s motivation may be nuanced, or that good may still come from it, can cause us to shut them out and turn us into cynics.
Deconstructing the Campus Mental Health Crisis Narrative
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Now more than ever, campus mental health is dominated by the narrative of a crisis, painted as a dire picture of never-ending anxiety and depression among students, staff, and faculty. We now have opportunity to deconstruct the singular “crisis” narrative and consider more complex and nuanced understandings of campus mental health.
Turning Compassion Inward
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Compassion involves recognizing and turning toward another’s pain, seeking to decrease their suffering by extending them kindness and care. Self-compassion is compassion turned inward. Self-compassion researcher Kristin Neff identifies its three components as self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.
Including Neurodiversity in the Workplace
Monday, February 5, 2024
Workplace inclusion is not just about having neurodiverse members on staff, but also providing a sense of belonging. It’s about a company understanding that neurodiverse employees provide a wealth of skills and capabilities like anyone else.
Pagination