Let’s Talk about Mental Health: Employee Support & Resources
Whether teaching, advising, engaging in research, or supporting the University in other ways—faculty and staff lead busy professional lives. Right now, many of us may also feel an undercurrent of worry, strain, and exhaustion from changes in our society, at BU, and around the world.
It’s not always easy to find time and energy to care for our mental health. But when we do, we build resilience and increase our capacity to support others.
There’s no ‘one way’ to nurture your mental health. What matters is finding support that works for you. This newsletter will give you some ideas—whether it’s strengthening connections with colleagues, attending an event, or engaging with resources designed specifically for faculty and staff. When we show up for ourselves and each other, we create a community where mental health is accessible to all.
Finding Support in Community
Positive mental health grows in environments where people feel connected, valued, and supported
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Belonging at BU
Faculty & Staff Community Networks and groups through BU Diversity & Inclusion foster a sense of belonging and wellbeing through meaningful connections. These communities are led by BU faculty and staff and offer support, networking opportunities, and more for employees who share various identities. Learn more. |
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Cultivating Wellness Together
Virtual programs through the Faculty & Staff Assistance Office create supportive spaces and welcoming communities to care for wellbeing. Using techniques like reflection, group discussion, and mindfulness, employees can practice skills to support themselves and contribute to health-promoting workplaces. Learn more. |
October Events 📅
Find a community of support at many events this month! Connecting with others offers meaningful mental health support and reminds us that we’re not alone.
- Tai Chi | Mondays & Wednesdays at Marsh Chapel
- Mindfulness Practice for Wellbeing | Oct. 20 via Zoom
- Paws & Reset Therapy Dogs | Oct. 22 at Alumni Medical Library
- SARP Welcome Event | Oct. 24 on BU Beach
- Mental Health Awareness at Work | Oct. 29 via Zoom
- Breath, Rhythm & Music for Your Wellbeing | Oct 22, Oct 29 at the HTC
Resources for Yourself & Others
Free tools are available to BU employees and their families to help care for mental health and wellbeing:
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OurRelationship helps improve communication, reduce conflict, & deepen connection. Whether you’re facing challenges or simply looking to strengthen your relationships, you can find private, flexible tools to meet your needs. There are distinct pathways for heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ couples and individuals not in a relationship. Learn more. |
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Headspace has playlists, guided meditations, and more to improve health and happiness. You can use the app on your phone or computer, and the content is available in multiple languages including Spanish, Portuguese, German, and French. Learn more |
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BU Employee Wellness shares resources and benefits to promote a culture of wellness.
This includes offerings like nutrition & cooking workshops, virtual activity breaks, retirement help desk sessions, and information on a variety of personal and work-related topics. Learn more. |
Spotlight on Student Mental Health
As faculty and staff, you have power to support students and contribute to a culture of care at BU.
- Teaching Strategies that Foster Connection & Wellbeing in the Classroom
BU’s Institute for Excellence in Teaching & Learning recently spoke with Dr. Sarah Ketchen Lipson (SPH) about the connection between student wellness and academic success, strategies for creating a sense of belonging and connection, and the importance of equipping faculty with the tools to support students holistically—inside and outside the classroom. Read more.
- Intersectionality and Mental Health: The Multifaceted Life of Student
All BU faculty and staff are invited to this Mental Health Summit on October 23 to deepen knowledge and skills to support students. The keynote address is available hybrid, and afterwards, in-person attendees can participate in roundtable discussions with colleagues. Register now.
Mental Health Resources
The Faculty & Staff Assistance Office (FSAO) at BU offers free and confidential short-term counseling, referrals for community resources, critical incident support, management consultation, and training and education. FSAO is available to talk over the next steps to support your mental health.
If you are having a mental health emergency, contact these crisis resources.
“I want to end mental health stigma because everyone should be able to access mental health care without fear or judgment.”
— Hannah Pereira, Orientation