As health and well-being remain a focus on campus, new resources to support students are being introduced this fall. Powered by the Division of Student Affairs Healthy ’Cane Network, a refreshed perspective on well-being aims to improve the lives of University of Miami students.
The Well-Being and Resiliency initiative, complete with a new website, student newsletter, and other materials, helps students learn how to prioritize their own well-being by collecting a variety of helpful resources that tackle numerous aspects of healthy living.
Tony Musto, chair of the Healthy ’Cane Network and director of fitness programs for the Department of Wellness and Recreation, noted how the initiative crosses University departments to present students with a holistic view of their well-being. “We needed to create a simple, unified effort that included a one-stop-shop for students to get health and well-being educational information as well as access to resources,” he said. “When students take the time to take care of themselves, they have a better chance of success and learning retention.”
By visiting miami.edu/well-being, students are directed towards the eight dimensions of well-being and are encouraged to actively engage with each of them to maximize their health and wellness. Displaying resources for emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual well-being, the site’s organization helps visitors easily identify on-campus, off-campus, and online resources. In addition to students, University faculty and staff are encouraged to use this online tool when supporting students.
The Student Well-Being Newsletter, sent to undergraduate students every three weeks, further reinforces the eight dimensions of well-being with each issue focusing on a specific dimension via campus program highlights, highlighting campus programs and services as well as tips to maximize their well-being.
“The dimensions are intended to give students a holistic approach to self-care and resiliency. These new outlets will provide information and resources on how students can tap into each one of those dimensions and create tools that they can use at any time,” says Rene Monteagudo, the director of the University Counseling Center—who also worked closely with the Healthy ’Cane Network to curate the new project.
