(354) Well-being: Moving from a Concept to a Centerpiece of our Culture

Objective : In 2021, almost 50% of high school students felt persistently sad or hopeless and nearly one-third (29%) experienced poor mental health according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Depression, stress and anxiety persist in college students, particularly those enrolled in health professions programs. The University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy (URICOP) prioritizes the well-being of our students, faculty and staff.

Methods: Since 2017, we have engaged in research aimed at reducing stress and anxiety and increasing mindfulness through the use of yoga and meditation. Recognizing the importance of expanding beyond these practices, we formalized our program in 2019 with the creation of an ad hoc Wellness Committee. This committee is chaired by our Wellness Champion and consists of faculty members and student liaisons.

Results: With the COVID-19 pandemic, we searched for ways to remain connected. In the Spring of 2020, we made a commitment to “Wellness Wednesdays” and conducted events remotely, and outdoors, to keep our students, faculty, and staff engaged. Activities included meal preparation/planning, yoga/meditation, and mindfulness through photography, soapmaking, and music. In the Fall of 2021, we shifted our focus to student-driven events in which our student organizations led wellness activities to encourage more participation within their own groups, such as “DeStress with Dogs” and herbal tea in the greenhouse. Well-being and “Wellness Wednesdays” have continued to evolve and strengthen into co-curricular and experiential opportunities.

Conclusions: Our Committee promotes an inclusive nature to our events offering to everyone within our campus community as well as pharmacists and alumni through the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association. Our wellness endures as a centerpiece of the culture within our College.