Mental Health and Well-Being
A large percentage of graduate students and medical students struggle with mental health. A 2016 meta-analysis revealed that 27% of medical students report symptoms of depression or depressive symptoms (Rotenstein et al. 2016). A 2014 study reported that 7% of graduate students at a large southeastern university reported thoughts of suicide (Garcia-Williams et al. 2014). Often, these issues stem from the training itself--with high stress that leads to burnout, anxiety, or depression. Other times these feelings can come from other responsibilities, personal factors, or psychiatric disease.
If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or feel like you need help, please know that you are not alone.
The MSTP is a resource that is always open to you. MSTP leadership is available at any time for confidential discussions on matters of health and well-being. The MSTP faculty and staff, and your peers are also here to help.
We list here several professional resources that can help those of us needing assistance with mental health. They range from crisis care providers to mindfulness and stress reduction activities. They have been loosely organized below by urgency and level of commitment. Each resource is unlikely to meet everyone's needs, so we invite you to find the optimal combination for you.
Please remember that you don't have to deal with mental health alone.
Resources
The following resources are categorized by the relative amount of commitment associated with them. Under "Urgent," you'll find immediate help services. "Less Time Intensive" includes services that have drop-in or online resources that can be "one-and-done," if you so choose, or more extended. Under "Activities," we've included activities and events provided across the university aimed to reduce stress.
Urgent:
If you are in a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself, please use one of these emergency resources.
University of Minnesota Twin Cities well-being resources
RAINN National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
This hotline is particularly geared towards survivors of sexual assault.
National Eating Disorders Association
1-800-931-2237
Behavorial Consultation Team
The University of Minnesota's Behavioral Consultation Team (BCT) is a team of staff from several departments across the University with administrative, psychological, academic and legal expertise. The team operates within FERPA/HIPAA requirements. Its goal is to provide a coordinated response to situations arising from students who may represent a threat of harm to themselves or others.
Less time intensive:
Peers Supporting Peers (PSP)
Peers Supporting Peers (PSP) is an organization of University of Minnesota medical students who provide confidential, non-judgmental support to fellow students looking for assistance in coping with school and non-school-related questions and stressors.
Medical Student Well-Being Committee
A wealth of information and tools regarding the 6 facets of well-being (Health, Relationships, Community, Environment, Security, Purpose). Additionally, the Committee offers wellness events throughout the academic year and an e-mail weekly wellbeing reflection survey to current medical students.
Learner Development – University of Minnesota Medical Education
A full range of academic services assists students in developing optimal learning and performance skills and strategies, such as time management, organizational skills, problem-solving, memorization and reading techniques, test-taking skills, etc.
Activities:
University Recreation and Wellness
Exercise can be an extremely important factor in maintaining mental health. General workout areas and pools at the Rec Center are free to all students who pay the Student Services Fee. Some activities, such as the indoor rock climbing wall or equipment rental, cost extra, but everything is very reasonably priced. Details about special features such as classes, lessons, and outdoor equipment rental can be found on the University Recreation and Wellness website.
University Recreation and Wellness Wellbeing Resources
Programs across campus can holistically help you manage your wellbeing needs. Here are a few great resources and partners recommended by the University Recreation and Wellness Center.
Massage Therapy
Massage services include cranial sacral, injury rehabilitation, myofascial release, shiatsu, and sports massage.
Financial Wellness
Certified financial wellness counselors who are part of One Stop Student Services are available to help. Whether teaching money management, or answering questions about loans, they have a wealth of knowledge for University students. Schedule a free financial wellness appointment, or learn more about financial wellness below.
Earl E Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing
The Center for Spirituality and Healing promotes wellbeing on campus and in other institutions and communities. They provide a wide range of resources, ranging from information on their website to for-credit courses. Here are some of the many options:
- Taking Charge of your Health & Wellbeing
You can assess well-being, set goals, learn more, and find resources.
- Courses for Medical Students
The Center provides courses regarding Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, complementary therapies, and professional satisfaction.
- Mindful Mondays
Mindful Mondays are free drop-in sessions held on Zoom from noon to 1 p.m. Central. Our experienced facilitators will guide you through a series of mindful movements and meditations that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. No prior experience or special clothing is necessary.
Visit the University of Minnesota Twin Cities well-being resources for information about campus mental health resources and activities.