By Roselyn Ilo
Contributer
The university is stepping up its wellness game with the introduction of new amenities aimed at enhancing student wellbeing.
The campus now boasts two nap pods, massage chairs and multiple Zen Dens as part of a broader initiative spearheaded by Counseling Services and the Wellbeing Center.
Nick Pinkerton, the associate dean of counseling services and wellbeing, has championed this initiative.
“Our goal is to create environments where students can take a break, decompress and ultimately improve their overall wellbeing,” Pinkerton said.
The nap pods are in the library on the first floor and near the gym in the student center. Massage chairs are in Schwartz Hall and Recreation and Fitness, while Zen Dens are in the Adanti Student Center, CASAS and Schwartz Hall.
The initiative, funded by grants, aims to integrate mindfulness and relaxation into students’ daily routines.
“We want to make sure students have access to spaces that support their mental health,” Pinkerton said. “These new features are designed to offer quick and effective ways for students to improve their wellness.”
The university’s investment in wellness spaces aligns with a broader trend among universities to prioritize mental health resources as part of their support systems for students.
“Creating these spaces is part of our prevention strategy rather than just addressing issues after they arise,” Pinkerton said. “We want to proactively support students’ mental health and provide them with resources that help them manage stress before it becomes overwhelming.”
Student responses to these new features have been mixed. History major Madison DeStefano, a freshman, acknowledged the existence of the nap pods and Zen Dens but admitted she had not used them yet.
“Even though I haven’t used them, I think it’s good to know they’re available if I need them,” DeStefano said. “It’s helpful for those long days on campus, especially if you’re a commuter.”
In addition to these amenities, the university is hosting a QPR, Question, Persuade, Refer, certification workshop on Oct. 15.
This training will equip students with skills to recognize and respond to signs of suicide, further emphasizing the university’s commitment to mental health support.
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