As we’re nearing the end of the first month of the Winter semester, it’s not too soon to be feeling stressed. January 29th to February 2nd BUSU is holding their 2018 Mental Health Week. The week is intended to alleviate stress from school, but also increase awareness and aid in ending the stigma around mental health.

Dogs and free David’s Tea were in the Mingling Area of the Knowles-Douglas Centre (KDC) from 11:30AM to 1:30PM on Monday, January 29th. We sincerely hope you (all of you) went and hugged a puppy to chase your winter blues away.

On Tuesday, January 30th, there will be a free cereal bar in the Mingling Area from 9:00AM to 11:00AM. Also on the docket is a meet and greet with BU’s counsellors from 12:40PM to 1:30PM in the Indigenous Peoples Centre, complete with free hot drinks and snacks.

Wednesday, January 31st is Bell’s Let’s Talk Day. From 9:00AM to 3:00PM in the Mingling Area, you can sign your name to the banner or fill out a thought bubble to support mental health initiatives and receive a free toque.

Local resources and de-stress booths will be in the Mingling Area from 9:00AM to 3:00PM on Thursday, February 1st. There will also be a special collaboration between the Sutherland Art Gallery and the BU Theatre club titled “Drawing Truth, Erasing Stigma: Understanding mental health” at 7:00PM in the art gallery.

To complete the week On Friday, February 2nd, there will be free cookie decorating (and of course, free cookie eating) outside the library from 12:00PM to 2:00PM, and free massages available from 12:30PM to 3:30PM in the library gathering space. The massages are, as always, on a first-come, first-served basis.