Mental Health and Well-Being Stories

The University of Iowa aims to create a sustainable culture of holistic well-being and success. Discover people and perspectives that help us care for ourselves and each other as we integrate study, work, and life. For additional articles on mental health and well-being, read University Counseling Service's news.

Person holding a cup of coffee outside on a fall day

Me, Coffee, and the Mind

Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Love coffee but worried about its effects on sleep or mental health? Explore the science, potential benefits, and strategies for smarter caffeine use.
Help Wanted sign hanging in a window

Help Wanted! Normalizing Help-Seeking

Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Struggling to ask for help? Learn why reaching out isn’t a weakness, but a strength, and how support can improve connection, clarity, and well-being.
Are you ok? written in pen on blue post-it note

Creating a supportive work environment can be as simple as asking ‘Are you OK?’

Monday, May 5, 2025
A supportive workplace can change lives. Learn how prioritizing mental health, checking in with colleagues, and fostering a caring culture make a meaningful difference across campus.
three people walking together

The Secret to Staying Active Isn’t Willpower

Monday, April 28, 2025
Discover how movement can foster connection, combat loneliness, and support both mental and physical health. Learn practical ways to build your community through physical activity and make movement a meaningful, sustainable part of your life.
Four people with colorful coats with arms around each other

On Bravery

Monday, April 21, 2025
Learn how to build bravery and courage by focusing on compassionate goals, connecting with community, and managing stress. Discover science-backed strategies to face fear, act with purpose, and foster resilience in yourself and others.
Person standing the ocean

Ride the Waves: Live Mindfully and Balance Stress

Monday, April 14, 2025
Discover how mindfulness can help you navigate life's challenges. Learn practical tips to start your mindfulness journey, including breath awareness, body scans, self-compassion, and mindful pauses—all backed by research showing benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
two friends sitting on the couch laughing together

Laughter: Better Than a Sharp Stick in Your Eye

Monday, April 7, 2025
A comedian and scholar Megan Gogerty examines comedy's complex role in mental health, arguing that while laughter isn't a cure-all, its power lies in creating community through shared humor and providing relief during difficult times.
Silhouette of a human head with intricate neural connections branching throughout

Mindful Machines: How AI Can Boost (Not Break) Your Mental Health

Monday, March 31, 2025
AI and mental health might seem like unexpected allies. Mental health is personal and emotional, and to some AI might feel cold and robotic—even intimidating. However, by engaging thoughtfully, we can help to steer this technological wave rather than being swept away by it.
woman biting into apple

Embracing Self-Care Through Nutrition: Small Acts for Mental Well-Being

Monday, March 24, 2025
In our fast-paced lives, where the demands of work, family, and personal responsibilities collide, it’s easy to overlook one of the most powerful tools for improving physical and mental well-being: Fueling ourselves with food.
Child covering their face

More like Kason, Less Like Pete: Rethinking Resilience & Tears

Monday, March 10, 2025
In the book series 'Pete the Cat,' Pete teaches resilience by not crying. But recently, my son Kason taught me a different lesson—that it’s OK to cry. Crying isn’t a failure. It isn’t weakness. It’s human. It’s resilience.