With classes, work, family pressures, and more, students have a lot on their plate. Many MENA students also experience race-related stress due to hate and prejudice in their community. Some are dealing with trauma, fear, and grief from having family members living in active war zones. Recently, most of us have also been watching horrific violence unfold on our phone screens. This is not an easy time for our community.
You may come from a culture or family where getting mental health help is stigmatized or discouraged. However, there are many confidential resources on campus available If you’re struggling to cope or just need to talk to someone, please check out the resources below:
- Student Assistance Center - provides help with academic challenges due to physical or mental health, as well as connecting students with services
If you need more help than what U of I can provide, you can be connected to mental health providers in the area or via telehealth. There are therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and more that understand your background and how current events may be affecting you. Ask for help finding culturally competent care or use online directories to find providers who are competent in your culture and/or language.