Campus News

Prioritizing your well-being this spring quarter

Spring quarter can feel demanding. Prioritize your mental health, stay connected, and access support resources available to help you navigate this stretch.

April 23, 2026

By Student Health Services

Dear Slugs,

As we move through the middle of the spring quarter, longer days and warmer weather may be bringing moments of energy and renewal, and many of you may be looking ahead to summer or graduation. At the same time, this part of the academic year can be especially demanding. As energy begins to dip, academic pressures often increase. You may be balancing exams, final projects, job searches, financial concerns, or plans for what comes next. This time of year can bring a steady buildup of pressure, often just as your energy is starting to wear down.

You may notice changes in your sleep, mood, or motivation, or find yourself feeling stretched thin or burned out. These are common responses during this part of the quarter, and acknowledging them is an important step in caring for your mental health and well-being.

Spring quarter is not about eliminating stress. It is about managing it with intention and giving yourself permission to set realistic expectations. Taking breaks, staying connected, and reaching out for support, whether through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), a trusted mentor, or peer resources like CAPS peer educators, can make a meaningful difference. You do not need to navigate this on your own, and taking care of yourself is an essential part of getting through the quarter.

As we approach May, we also recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reduce stigma, build connection, and prioritize well-being as a community. Throughout the month, there will be opportunities to engage, learn, and connect with resources that support your mental health.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed—especially during evenings or weekends—support is available. You can contact the CAPS After Hours Crisis Service or connect with the Campus Mobile Crisis Team (CMCT), which provides timely, accessible, and culturally responsive support for students experiencing behavioral health concerns.

We also invite you to join us to “Meet the CMCT” on May 1, from 3–5 p.m., as part of the RAVE Ready event. Come connect with the team and learn how they can support you.

Here are just a few resources available to you:

• CAPS: Confidential counseling, case management, and psychiatric services at no additional cost to all students, regardless of insurance.
• Let’s Talk: FREE confidential chat with a counselor for support, advice, and information – no appointment needed!
• Anxiety toolbox: A three-part series developed by CAPS to help you learn effective strategies to manage and reduce anxiety. 
• Mood toolbox: Develop skills to better understand and manage your mood
• CAPS Programs and Services calendar: Topics include managing intense emotions, ADHD support, undergraduate and graduate student life, trauma recovery, and stress management, with opportunities for peer and therapeutic support. 

Taking even small measures to care for yourself matters. We are here to support you.

In community,

Maryjan Murphy
Director, Counseling and Psychological Services

John Bollard
Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Health and Wellness and Chief Well-being Officer