The Fourth Annual “You Good?” Living Well Conference takes place April 10th - 12th. The Division of Student Affairs, along with the Office of Counseling & Disability Services and the Student Government Association of Clark Atlanta University, presents this summit to address the needs of students This Mental Health Summit has been designed to engage young scholars with thought-provoking topics geared towards specific mental health issues relevant to their generation; thus providing interactive and engaging mental health oriented activities and community service engagements. Dr. Vickie Jester, Associate Dean of Students, Wellness Outreach, and Mr. Charles Young, Director of Panther Fit spoke with us about this event on a special CAU Connects segment on The Local Take.
Dr. Jester shares how and why the You Good? Living Well Mental Conference came into being, and the research that supports the needs of college students and young adults in mental health.
She goes on to explain that the stigma around mental health and medications still exists with young people, but they are more open to talk therapy
The number of students at CAU requesting mental health services increases every year.
Charles Young, the director of Panther Fit, speaks about using physical movement to release naturally occurring endorphins. Young shares that the “runner's high” is a real thing. He also speaks about mindful practices with movement, such as yoga. Panther Fit hosts the Mind of Miles Walk for students at CAU.
They share that students are taught to use cognitive behavior therapy when they need relief. This includes breathing and meditation. Additionally students serve as “Wellness Ambassadors” on campus to assist students in need of assistance with mental health challenges.
For more information about the You Good Mental Health Conference, visit the CAU Division of Student Affairs.