It’s finals week, and students are taking their much-needed break during brunch. The Wellness Center has therapy dogs and snacks set up to help students decompress after their tests. This is just some of what the Wellness Center does for students at the end of the school year. 

“May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so we’re highlighting it here at the school,” clinician-in-training Kimmy Demkovich said.

Demkovich said the Wellness Center makes sure that it is well-known that students can always drop in whenever they need a break.. 

“With physical health, it’s easier to get in touch with because you can see the symptoms. But mental health is internalized,” Demkovich said. “We’re here to bring awareness that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or depressed for periods of your life.”

Students said their favorite part of what the Wellness Center provides during finals week are the therapy dogs and snacks provided at brunch to help with mental health.

“I think dogs are really helpful during finals week because when I’m stressed, they’re really comforting and adorable,” freshman Ellia Sharafi said.

During finals week, Demkovich said Wellness Center staff will be outside during brunch at tables with snacks.

“I think an important part of the Wellness Center is the awareness they bring to mental health and how it can bring people together,” freshman Stella Stureson said. “The Wellness Center and mental health awareness should be more appreciated because of the people and community.”

Therapy dogs will come during finals and hang out on the quad with the Wellness Center, therapy dog owner Jennifer Poole said. 

“I think I would send a blanket reminder to students about their mental health and well-being. Learning to cope well through difficult periods is like a lifelong skill that you can learn to build. Getting the chance to learn the skills now is a great thing to bring to the rest of your life,” Demkovich said.