Counseling, Health & Wellness at Aquinas College
Wellness
What is Wellness?
Wellness is an active process of becoming aware of and making choices towards a more successful and fulfilling existence. Each dimension is significant and interconnected to the other dimensions.
“Wellness is a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving full potential.” ~ The National Wellness Institute
Why is Wellness Important?
Wellness matters at Aquinas College because we cannot achieve our fullest existence as individuals or as a community if we are not well. Prioritizing wellness allows us to actively practice the four Dominican pillars that support our community: prayer, study, community, and service. Additionally placing a focus on wellness builds a sustainable, inclusive, and multicultural community that can grow together.
“Mindfully focusing on wellness in our lives builds resilience and enables us to thrive amidst life’s challenges.” ~ The National Wellness InstituteWellness Dimensions
Wellness Dimensions
Aquinas College recognizes the following 9 dimensions:
Basic Needs
In addition to the wellness dimensions, Counseling, Health & Wellness services recognizes the importance ensuring that students' basic needs are met. The basic needs we work to address are:
Food
- At our front desk, we have a variety of "grab-n-go" snacks. Stop in and grab something, no questions asked.
- We also have a food pantry in our office for students in need of meals. This is a free and anonymous service.
Clothing
- If a student does not have comfortable clothing or clothing appropriate for the season, CHWS can connect students with community resources.
Shelter
- If a student does not have safe, comfortable and stable housing, CHWS can connect students with on-campus and community resources
Safety
- If a student a safety plan, CHWS will assist in the development of a safety plan and review the process of contacting Campus Safety or 911.
- If a student is aware of a bias incident, CHWS will assist the student in reporting to the Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Equity.
Additional Resources
For additional local wellness resources and programs, please visit the Dominican Center at Marywood
For additional wellness information and resources, please visit the following websites:
- Wellness at University of Illinois
- Wellness at University of California
- Self-Care at University at Buffalo
Can You Help Our Students?
Are you a 501c3 non-profit mental health resource organization who could benefit our students? If you would like to be included on our wellness webpage, contact CHWS@aquinas.edu to inquire further. In order to save you and our staff time and effort, please understand the criteria to be considered:
- be a non-profit organization
- provide evidence-based resources
- provide access to the people and credentials behind your resources through your website
- acknowledge spiritual aspects of wellness