Mental Health Walk: Collectively Fighting the Stigma
Love and Support
Dr. Terry Britt hands out suicide awareness information during the Mental Health Awareness Walk Oct. 9 at Harvey Lake. Photo by Megan Folk.
By MEGAN FOLK/Contributor
On Oct. 9, the University Center patio was alive with activity. Representatives of the Wellness Center, Counseling Center, Student Advocacy and Success, Frios and other organizations gathered for the Mental Health Awareness Walk at UT Tyler.
“It’s such a beautiful day to love yourself and love life,” Rebecca Wood said as she signed in to participate in the walk.
This is the fourth year the Wellness and Counseling centers hosted this event.
DAY OF SUPPORT
“A lot of our students experience stress and mental health concerns, and students knowing about the resources, the options, and all of that are really helpful,” Kim Livingston-Cobb, the associate dean of students and event organizer, said.
Gayathri Kambhampati, seated, talks to a student about calming breathing exercises during the Mental Health Walk Oct. 9. Photo by Megan Folk.
More than 100 students attended. Three walks took place around Harvey Lake. Attendees enjoyed popsicles and explored booths that offered resources and freebies.
Student Advocacy and Success distributed flyers and drawstring bags. The Counseling Center provided stress and fidget toys and shared information about TimelyCare, a free mental health app offering online counseling. Frios offered gourmet popsicles.
Gayathri Kambhampati, a UT Tyler mathematics professor who leads Heartfulness meditation, handed out information and guided students through breathing exercises.
STORIES AND ADVOCACY
At the check-in table, volunteers distributed stickers and coloring books. Associate Professor of Mass Communications Dr. Terry Britt greeted students and handed out materials on suicide prevention and recognizing warning signs.
Participants in the Mental Health Walk Oct. 9 complete a walk around Harvey Lake. Photo by Megan Folk.
“Basically, I just want students, staff, faculty, everyone at UT Tyler, as well as outside the campus community, to know your story doesn’t have to have a tragic ending,” Britt said.
Reflecting on his struggles with his own mental health, Britt emphasized the importance of connection and support.
“Regardless of what you’ve been through, what you’ve felt like you had to deal with on your own, you are not alone. You are never alone,” he said.
Video by Megan Folk