Changemaker Series: Mental health focus at Nazareth

In this episode, we are focusing on mental health on our campus and beyond. May is Mental Health Awareness month, and given alarming mental health trends, this issue is a year-round priority for our community. Overcoming the stigma of mental health challenges is an important first step, so people can get support and treatment.  One way to overcome this stigma is for students to talk with each other about mental health, peer-to-peer —  evidence shows this can help significantly to overcome barriers and address mental health challenges. Naz senior Amanda Foster worked hard to bring the nonprofit organization, Morgan's Message, to Nazareth this spring, with the goal of supporting the well-being of Golden Flyers of the present and future. 

 

Guests on the podcast:

Amanda Foster is a senior psychology major with minors in human resources and business. She’s a four-year member of the swimming and diving team, co-chair of the class of 2022's senior class gift campaign, and a talent development intern at a leading energy company. 

 

John Rigney is assistant director for wellness outreach and education at the Health and Counseling Center. John has worked at Nazareth since 2013 and works very closely with the athletics department.  He ran cross country and track at St. Bonaventure University, in his words  “a long time ago.”  

 

Show links:

• Mental Matchup Podcast: podcast affiliated with Morgan’s Message that Amanda refers to in the podcast

• LINK TO Beth’s op-ed on Mental Health and Colleges

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

• Ways to contact Nazareth Morgan’s Message:
  Instagram: @nazarethmorgansmessage

• Email: morgansmessage@mail.naz.edu