Creating Happy Moments at Work: Insights into Happy Brain Chemicals and How to Unlock Them
About the Session
The purpose of this program is to equip student affairs practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to foster inclusivity and provide effective support to LGBTQ+ students on college campuses. Through a combination of research-based insights and practical experience, this program aims to enhance participants' allyship capabilities, introduce the App Allies initiative, and facilitate a deeper understanding of the relevance of LGBTQ+ support in current student affairs practice.
The current higher education landscape is increasingly diverse, with students from various backgrounds seeking inclusive environments where they can thrive academically and personally. LGBTQ+ students, in particular, face unique challenges related to identity, discrimination, and mental health. According to a 2018 survey by the Trevor Project, 39% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Moreover, the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) revealed that LGBTQ+ students reported higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use compared to their heterosexual peers. These alarming statistics underscore the pressing need for student affairs practitioners to actively support and advocate for LGBTQ+ students. Despite the increasing visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, the question remains: how effectively are student affairs professionals addressing the specific concerns of this community? Research has shown that many LGBTQ+ students still experience discrimination and lack of support on college campuses. This program addresses this gap by offering practical strategies and resources to enhance allyship skills, thereby fostering more inclusive and affirming campus environments.
Session I, Anne Belk Hall, Room 110
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will learn about the brain’s happy chemicals, how they work, and how to create workplace moments of happiness.
- Participants will learn about some specific activities that can be incorporated at the workplace as a daily practice to increase happiness and wellbeing.
- Participants will learn to make a self care plan to promote building happy moments throughout our day, whether home or work.
Presenters
Izzy the Therapy Dog, Counseling and Psychological Services
N/A