Active Minds

Reissa Decena from Active Minds at University of California-Riverside says:

 "I have been with the Riverside chapter of Active Minds since its first few meetings, and have had the privilege of watching it expand and consolidate since then. During its general meetings, the members were open and willing to share their stories about the reasons mental health was so important to them. The intimate and sincere way in which the club established its desire to spread mental health awareness encouraged me to become involved. As a student, mental health is a broad topic of academic curiosity for me. As a person, maintaining positive mental health is critical to having a healthy lifestyle.

I feel that it is necessary to have a club on campus promoting the importance of paying attention to the signals and emotions from the mind, because such warnings often take second place for students experiencing the stress that comes with college life.

Active Minds challenged me to think creatively about ways in which the issues of mental health can be embodied and presented relevantly to college students. In the process of helping draft projects which have a basis in mental health topics, I have become more informed about these topics - as well as the specific student body that is our target audience.

For me, this testimonial is an account of a growing experience. One of the most gratifying experiences I’ve had with my Active Minds chapter is our Therapy Fluffy project. Like its name suggests, the event gives college students and staff the opportunity to relieve stress by petting and playing with therapy dogs. The smiles of those walking out of the Therapy Fluffy tent signified to me that Active Minds is having a positive impact on my campus. Students left with a greater understanding of what positively impacts their mental health. For me, knowing that I am part of a club that can make that kind of difference is extremely motivating."