Lane Community College’s Health and Wellness Center has opened a Respite and Rejuvenation Center, offering a safe haven to students who are struggling with mental health issues.
The Health and Wellness Center was opened during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been embraced by both students and staff. The center is located in Building 18 and provides a quiet space for students to relax, recharge and rejuvenate. It is equipped with an assortment of activities, including meditation spaces, iPads with yoga activities, craft supplies, snacks, and beverages. The room is designed to create a calming environment for students in need of a mental break.
Dr. Jane Reeder, who works in Academic Affairs, pushed to reopen the program, recognizing the growing need for the resource. Jean Gipple, a therapist for decades, also got involved because of her passion to serve. The center also has a student worker. According to Gipple, “As the center enters its third year of operation, its services are in high demand as students transition out of online classes and social distancing to the “normal” school environment”.
The program has set ambitious goals for the future, including increasing the number of student workers to offer longer hours and adding more support groups for students. There are also plans to introduce student or staff-led classes that will focus on yoga, tai chi, and other wellness-related topics.
The need for the Respite and Rejuvenation Center has become increasingly evident in recent years due to the growing number of students experiencing mental health issues. In fact, according to the Lane County Oregon website, in 2020, the rate of suicide in Lane County was 65 percent greater than the U.S. average. This staggering statistic highlights the gravity of the situation, making the center an even more important resource for students in the area. The center provides a safe and supportive environment for students to take a break from the stressors of everyday life and receive the mental health support they need. By offering services such as counseling, peer support, and stress-reducing activities, the center aims to promote well-being and prevent suicide among Lane County students.
