Mental Health
The mental wellness education program aims to reduce stigma around mental health through campus-wide education initiatives for all members of the WMU community. As part of this initiative, we coordinate multiple gatekeeper trainings including Mental Health First Aid, safeTALK, Western CARES, stress management workshops, self-care workshops, and mental health peer education for faculty, staff, and students.
Mental Health PALS
The Mental Health PALS (Powerful Advocates Learning to Support) are a group of WMU students who are trained to educate and support the WMU community in topics related to mental wellness such as managing stress, building tools for navigating complex emotions, and how to mindfully face life’s challenges at WMU and beyond. The PALS work towards the mission of reducing mental health stigma by facilitating events, presentations, and programming across campus and alongside a variety of community partners.
Interested in joining PALS? Check our (website? Social media? Contact our office?) for more information on applying to be a peer educator.
The Common Ground
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 am – 4 pm
Located on the third floor of Sindecuse Health Center in the Office of Health Promotion and Education, The Common Ground is a free space open to all WMU students.
Staffed by our Mental Health PALS, the Common Ground serves as a health-promoting space where students can connect with mental health resources and identify ways to support their well-being. At the Common Ground, students can find a variety of activities, information, and resources designed specifically with well-being in mind.
Activities include:
- Coloring and craft supplies
- Sensory items
- Karaoke machine and keyboard
- Puzzles
- Mental health information and worksheets
- Relaxation space including bean bags and yoga mats
- Space for homework and connecting with other students
- & more