Election season. The pandemic. Social injustice. All of these things on their own are stressful. Combine them, and it’s a recipe for extraordinarily high levels of stress and anxiety, which can severely impact our wellbeing.
While this might sound daunting, there are ways to combat the destructive effects of these emotions. Carving out time to focus on our personal health and happiness and to participate in self-care can do wonders to improve moods and prevent depression.
To support the campus community, Dr. Anne Weisman, director of wellness and integrative medicine at the School of Medicine, will host a virtual mind-body skills seminar at 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28. The "From Chaos to Calm" session is open to all 51ԹϺ faculty, staff, and students. Registration is not required. Visit the 51ԹϺ Calendar for details about how to join.
The seminar is based on proven techniques developed by Dr. James Gordon of The Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM) in Washington, D.C.
"The techniques from the Center for Mind-Body Medicine model are simple and incredibly powerful coping tools,” Weisman said. “Since learning CMBM's model post October 1, 2017, this has become a part of my daily practice and what I teach medical students, residents, faculty, and our community."
The Center for Mind-Body Medicine program has repeatedly demonstrated in published research 80 percent reductions in symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, significant improvement in symptoms of depression, and enhanced hopefulness, optimism, and compassion for others.
“We know students, faculty, and staff may be feeling extra anxiety during this election season, which is layered over the pressures of performing their utmost in teaching, learning, and working under the very different circumstances of this pandemic," said Chris Heavey, interim executive vice president and provost. "51ԹϺ would like to provide an opportunity for people to check-in with their health and wellness, so we are pleased to present this program through the School of Medicine."
