Tower Editorial on Wellness

As the weather finally starts to cool down, the fall semester is heating up. It is already time for Family Weekend; soon it will be Cardinal Weekend, then Halloween. With midterms looming it is impossible not to be stressed about school. Especially after reading the beginning of this editorial.

The month of September has been incredibly hectic for Catholic University. With everything going on in the Catholic Church and with the Kavanaugh hearings it is becoming more and more difficult to have faith in our world’s most established institutions. Last Thursday, September 20, was Fresh Check Day. The event took place on the Pryz Lawn, where different booths run by student organizations promoted mental health. Students who attended were provided with tips on how to handle stress and stay healthy.

Wellness is an industry that has boomed in the past few years. Companies like Gwenyth Paltrow’s GOOP have made millions of dollars selling “treat yourself” wellness products. In times like these it is important to remember that “wellness” is something that cannot be bought. Catholic University students must find wellness for themselves. Buying a Salt Detox Body Scrub is not only expensive for a college student, but after the dry salt rubs off, what do you have left?

Wellness is more simple than that, but it is harder to achieve because it is not something found on a shelf. Wellness is turning your phone off and getting a good night’s sleep. It is laying your clothes out the night before a big test, hanging out with friends after a long day, or going to the gym to break up a long study session. Wellness is being aware of your mind and your body. It is important to know that it is okay to not be okay.

College is a time for growth and sometimes acknowledging you are not quite where you want to be. It is okay to go to the Counseling Center even if you feel awkward or like you may not need it. The people in the Counseling Center are there to help you and they are open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for walk-in appointments. On top of that, two weeks ago was Suicide Prevention Week, and coming up in two weeks is Mental Health Awareness Week. Check in with your friends, see how they’re doing.

Wellness is personal and everyone becomes “well” differently. For the most part, it is taking care of yourself. It is your job to get good grades; it is also your job to take care of your body and mind. You will have them for the rest of your life.