Recap: ERN2025 Wellbeing Workshop
Session Title: Thriving in STEM: Cultivating Resilience and Mental Health Wellness
Abstract: College life in STEM fields can be exciting yet challenging, often accompanied by demanding coursework, high expectations, and the pressure to succeed. This workshop is designed to help STEM students build resilience, prioritize mental wellness, and create a foundation for long-term success.
Two 60-minute interactive presentations were provided to approximately 40+ students and faculty on Saturday and Sunday. Participants explored common challenges such as imposter syndrome, burnout, and academic stress while learning evidenced based strategies to manage these obstacles. Also, this presentation covered mental health literacy, and the importance of recognizing signs of burnout, anxiety, and depression, and reducing stigma around seeking support in rigorous academic and professional environments. In addition, participants engaged in wellness tools such as box breathing to demonstrate emotional self-regulation and self-care practices. The presentations were safe spaces for a rich conversation. For example, participants shared their mental health struggles and challenges with academic stresses. Participants gained tools to enhance their emotional well-being and foster a growth mindset.
A wellness lounge was provided for students to pause, recharge, and prioritize self-care. It was designed to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being, offering a calm, welcoming environment for relaxation and reflection.
Overall, participants left with a greater awareness of how mental health and resilience directly impact success and sustainability in STEM, along with actionable steps to thrive both personally and professionally.