Medical Center Hosts Mental Health Awareness Event

Columbia University Irving Medical Center hosted a Mental Health Awareness Event, with opening remarks by James McKiernan, interim dean of the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, on Oct. 22 to promote awareness of campus mental health resources and enhance the mental well-being of faculty, clinicians, and staff.

The event was organized by several CUIMC and Columbia offices, including CUIMC HR; the Well-Being Office; the Office of Work/Life; CUIMC Events; POWER (Promoting Overall Well-Being, Engagement, and Resilience) in Pediatrics; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging; and CUIMC leadership. The event aimed to eliminate the stigma regarding mental health and centered around the theme of “Compassion, Connection and Support,” reflecting the medical center's commitment to fostering a supportive, connected community and promoting overall well-being.

The event offered a variety of well-being, mindfulness, and relaxation activities, including nature experiences provided by POWER, acupuncture, tai chi, pet therapy, mindfulness breathing techniques, and dance. Also offered were workshops on topics including finding meaning at work, financial well-being, and nutrition.

Many of the tables at the CUIMC Mental Health Awareness Event offered interactive activities and giveaways.

Attendees had the chance to get a quick blood pressure check at the event.

Pet therapy gave attendees the opportunity to interact with trained therapy dogs.

Light refreshments were available at the event including fruit, granola, and yogurt.

“Mental health has always been a priority on our campus,” says Neil McClure, chief human resources officer at CUIMC. “This event was an amazing showcase of the resources available to our employees to support their mental health. I encourage everyone to take stock in how they are doing and to reach out to our employee assistance program or other resources for help when needed.”

Nataly Beltre, project coordinator in the Department of Emergency Medicine, says she felt that the event illustrated why mental health at work is important.

“Mental health at work means creating a space where we feel valued, heard, and human,” Beltre says. “When we lift each other up, we all thrive.”