Healing Horizons: A Path to Peace for Students Grappling with Stress and Trauma

In the fast-paced environment of university life, where the pressures of deadlines, exams, and personal responsibilities are always looming, stress can often feel overwhelming. For many students, the weight of these pressures is compounded by past traumas or ongoing anxiety. Recognizing the need for a space where students can manage their mental health effectively, the Student Health and Wellness Center has introduced Healing Horizons, a weekly event designed to help students take control of their stress and anxiety through practical techniques and compassionate support.

Held every Tuesday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in Room 280 of the Student Union, Healing Horizons is a drop-in space where no registration is needed. Each session focuses on different aspects of mental health, providing students with grounding techniques, coping skills, and psychoeducation. The informal and flexible structure of the event makes it accessible to students who may be dealing with busy schedules, allowing them to drop in whenever they need support.

The Need for Mental Health Support

With mental health issues on the rise, particularly among college students, initiatives like Healing Horizons are more important than ever. The need for spaces like Healing Horizons that offer tangible mental health tools is clear, especially for students who may not feel comfortable committing to long-term therapy or other mental health programs.

Elyssa Kenagy, a co-creator and facilitator of Healing Horizons, emphasizes the program’s accessibility, “We’re not asking for commitment. It’s a kind of come and go as you please.” This flexibility allows students to drop in when they need support, whether they’re dealing with personal challenges or preparing for stressful events.

The Power of Community

For many students, Healing Horizons offers more than just a set of tools, it provides a sense of community. The group dynamic allows students to connect with others who may be dealing with similar issues, creating an atmosphere of mutual support.

Having attended one of the sessions myself and participated in the exercises, I found the program’s techniques approachable and effective in helping students manage their stress. This firsthand experience highlighted the program’s value as a supportive space.

Shirley Wu, a co-facilitator of the program, notes the barriers students face in seeking help: “There’s a general social stigma about emotions… A lot of clients feel very ashamed of expressing their needs.” Healing Horizons aims to break down these barriers by creating a safe space for students to explore their feelings without judgment.

Research has shown that social support is critical in mental health, helping individuals feel less isolated and more empowered to tackle their challenges. Healing Horizons creates a space where students can learn new skills while forming genuine connections with others.

Elyssa further elaborates on the importance of community in the program: “This is not a place to process it; we encourage students to go to individual counseling for that. Here, we focus on practical skills to help students manage their current challenges.”

Flexibility and Accessibility

What makes Healing Horizons stand out is its accessibility. No sign-up is required, and students can drop in whenever needed. This flexibility makes it an ideal option for students balancing heavy academic loads, work, and social obligations. Unlike traditional therapy or support groups that may require a long-term commitment, Healing Horizons offers a flexible and low-pressure environment where students can engage with mental health support on their terms.

Shirley emphasizes the importance of creating a space where students feel in control: “When you’re feeling very uncomfortable… you have the control and power to leave the space and take a break at any time.” For students who may not yet feel ready to seek professional help but still want to develop coping mechanisms, Healing Horizons offers a solid starting point. The sessions offer valuable insights and practical tools without the formality or commitment of long-term mental health services, making it easier for students to engage with their well-being in a way that suits them.

Looking Forward

As more students become aware of the Healing Horizons program, its facilitators hope that it will continue to grow and serve as a critical resource for mental health support on campus. With plans to continue offering sessions throughout the semester, repeating topics to ensure that no student misses out on key content, Healing Horizons is set to play a key role in supporting student well-being.

Healing Horizons offers a space for anyone curious about grounding techniques, coping strategies, or simply seeking a moment of calm. It’s a chance to learn helpful mental health skills and connect with fellow students navigating the challenges of college life together.

Healing Horizons takes place every Tuesday from 2-3:30 p.m. in Room 280 of the Student Union. For more information about the program and other mental health resources available on campus, visit the University Counseling Services website, which is part of the Student Health and Wellness Center (SHAW).