Health & Wellness

We all have to manage our mental health – think of this as mental hygiene. Just like you would adjust your diet or sleep to address changing needs, so too must you address your mental health supports as stressful circumstances evolve.

Students can connect with therapists at KU’s Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) for confidential counseling. Student appointments with a counselor are only $15 per session. This low rate makes care accessible and affordable. However, if this would create an undue financial burden, you may seek financial assistance from Dean Terranova. 

Additional self-help resources are available on the CAPS website. You’ll find information on everything from test anxiety to culture shock.

While you might not always think about it, eating right is a part of your academic and personal success. Poor diet can impair your concentration and aggravate stress. The keys to a healthy diet are relatively simple: eat more plants, including whole grains and legumes; limit processed foods, sugars, animal fat and alcohol.

The law school maintains a food pantry in the Wellness Space (212A). Students may come and help themselves as needed. Additionally, grocery store gift cards are available to students who may be experiencing food insecurity, no questions asked. Please contact Dean Terranova if you are in need of a gift card.

If you’re concerned about your alcohol use, you can take an online assessment. The National Institutes of Health offers more information, including tips and support for cutting back or quitting. For confidential advice or support, contact the Kansas Lawyers Assistance Program.

Now is the time to get moving on a regular exercise routine. Even moderate exercise, like gentle walking or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, relieves stress and improves mood. Establish daily habits now and they will serve you well throughout your life.

Studies suggest that walking or hiking in nature can reduce stress and improve memory, attention, and vitality. Nearby Clinton Lake offers hiking trails, a marina and sand beach, all of which are a quick reprieve from studying. The Lawrence Loop offers 22 miles of walking, hiking and biking trails to explore.

The Ambler Student Recreation Center has plenty of great options. Whether you like sand volleyball, cycling, lifting, group fitness classes or rock climbing, more movement is good for your mental and physical health. Up for a little friendly competition? Try some intramural sports!

Free online yoga classes are available to all students, staff and faculty throughout the week and at various times. Classes are taught by KU Law graduate and owner of Vast Yoga Studio, Katie Harpstrite, L'07. You’ll find this is a great way to unplug, distress and relax. The class schedule and Zoom links will be provided via Dean Mai’s weekly newsletter.

Sleep has a profound impact on our mood, emotional resilience and ability to focus and learn. Sleep needs vary, but the average adult needs 6-8 hours a day to feel refreshed and alert.

Sleep problems can contribute to depression and anxiety, weight irregularity and other challenges. To make matters worse, alcohol and nighttime computer use can both interfere with sleep. In short, sleep problems add to your stress and make you less able to cope.

If you’re experiencing sleep problems, it’s important that you learn to manage your stress and develop routines that support better sleep.

Remember all the things you used to love to do before law school? Remember the people who brought joy and fun into your life? They’re still there – you just need to make time for them.

You already know the importance of your social support network. Remember to make time for the friends and family you had before law school. And, while your time here is short, the friends you make in Green Hall will be friends for life. Plan a dinner party. Start a hiking group. Make a point of talking to people not in your small section (gasp!). Chances are, you’ll need to lean on these folks at some point and you’ll be thankful you made the time to build and cultivate these relationships. 

Remembering to make time for play will save you from burnout and help you relax and focus when it’s time to work. So, set aside some time for a game night with your friends, a hike at Clinton Lake, a movie night with family or a visit to the Spencer Museum of Art.

Whatever you decide to do, use the time as a mental vacation. You’ll enjoy it more and feel revitalized afterwards if you focus on the experience and leave law school behind for the moment.