Written by Martha Neal.
In response to the ongoing mental health crisis on campus, the University Cashier’s Office unveiled the “Wellness Room” for staff during the NC State’s Mental Health Awareness Week in May of this year.
The Cashier’s Office works with many at-risk and underserved students. We see students who are struggling with housing and food insecurity, medical issues, financial instability or family issues, all of which can have an impact on their mental health. Oftentimes, students come to us on the verge of or are already in a crisis. Our phone calls and emails often have hurt, angry or frustrated students or parents seeking guidance and resolution to a myriad of complex and heart wrenching issues. The pressure of regularly working in a high volume, fast paced and stressful environment can take a toll on even the most compassionate and well-trained staff. In addition, staff face their own struggles. In the past year, as a team, we have supported each other through the loss of family, aging parents with significant health conditions, managing life with children and our own physical and mental health, all the while maintaining our jobs and service to the university.
As the result of a suggestion from a staff member and inspiration from some TikTok videos, we took a spare office and created a private space where staff can unwind, de-stress and get moving. We added a walking pad and community laptop at a stand up desk so we can walk while we work. For those who want to use the room at lunch or on a break, we added hand weights and some yoga equipment. We decorated the room with fun prints, motivational quotes, a wax warmer, mirrors and fairy lights to create a tranquil atmosphere. We provided links to fifteen and thirty minute workouts and guided meditation and added a little bowl of chocolates!
We hope staff will find the Wellness Room a place of peace and relaxation and know that we value both their mental health and their physical well-being.
