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.

Trees with green leaves

From Either/Or to Both/And

Tuesday, October 3, 2023
A both/and perspective offers a more flexible approach to living and working in complex environments. Living in the both/and means multiple truths can exist at the same time, multiple outcomes are possible, and another person’s experiences are as valid as yours.
Two children playing, wearing capes

Facing a Medical Challenge? You Don’t Need to Be a Superhero

Monday, September 25, 2023
What does it mean when you are faced with an unexpected medical diagnosis from a practical sense? It might mean that your body needs to tolerate surgery, medications, side effects, or anxiety, resulting in changes to your daily habits and abilities.
People's hands on a conference table.

Facing Disagreement Without Trying to Fix It

Friday, September 15, 2023
Despite best intentions, our conversations often go awry when our ideas are questioned, we feel like we are under attack, and, out of habit, we protect ourselves by rushing to resolve the conflict. However, not all conflict needs a solution and sometimes its better if it doesn't.
Street signs at an intersection.

Tipping Points in Job and Career Transitions

Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Does the track you are on help you to achieve your personal and professional goals? If you feel like you are off track, it may be time to realign and recommit to moving toward what is important to you.
Backs of students' heads as they face a teacher in the classroom.

Students in Distress

Tuesday, August 29, 2023
When talking to students in distress, we are more effective when we are active listeners. It is a path of less responsibility and greater effectiveness when we use active listening rather than the more commonly used approach of attempting to fix, make better, or solve.
People running and biking on a paved trail lined with trees

Fitness and Mental Health

Friday, April 28, 2023
I am about to tell you something you probably already know: Exercise is good for your mental health. Whether you have been an avid exerciser for years, currently exercise, or have exercised in the past, your body rewarded you with the hormones that improve your sense of well-being and mood.
A cairn of piled stones on a beach, the tide in the background.

Performance Enhancement for the Workplace

Tuesday, April 25, 2023
Being mindful gives you more control over your behavior, reduces your emotional suffering, increases your sense of well-being, helps you make important decisions, makes you more effective and productive, and increases your compassion for self and others. 
Letter tiles spelling out the word grace

The Profound Importance of a Nearly Invisible Act

Friday, April 14, 2023
I think about my impact on others. I also remember the people who have had an impact on my life by allowing me to make mistakes and grow with dignity. The professor who let me assert myself as a 20-year-old, colleagues who have tolerated my growing pains, parents who let thoughtless words pass. With the benefit of time and experience, their kindness is revealed to me, and I feel their grace in my life.
One hand passing a paper heart to another hand

Overcoming Stigma Around Mental Health

Friday, April 7, 2023
To overcome stigma, we need to be comfortable talking about mental health. It can start with simply asking, “How are you, really?” and then listening with an open, accepting attitude.
Coffee cup on a table next to a laptop computer showing an online video conference

Healthy Vulnerability in the Workplace

Tuesday, April 4, 2023
Healthy vulnerability means you don’t have to be perfect, 100% confident, and composed all the time. We’re human, we have emotions, we have demands outside of work. It’s OK to have doubts and make mistakes. It’s OK to not have an immediate solution to every dilemma.