LEXINGTON, Ky. — Students at the University of Kentucky are unwinding in comfort on campus in the private relaxation rooms at the Gatton Student Center after getting back into the college routine.
Inside these relaxation rooms sit two large-cushioned chairs, a desk for working and two mounted televisions. Also, for student use are several journals, puzzles, whiteboards, various arts supplies and windows with soft lighting to elevate the calming nature of the room.
Director of TRACS, UK’s Triage Referral Assistance and Crisis Support Team, Paige Greene recommends students reduce some of the stress from being in school by simply resting.
“The goal is to get out of the mix of things and just be able to settle in and relax their minds and take a break.”
These rooms are meant to prevent some challenges that come with being in college, said Greene, who actively works with students needing immediate mental health attention. She says first-year students often experience situations and need help.
“Homesickness is a real thing and it can happen at any time, but often it’s happening to our freshman coming, being away from home for the first time.”
Green said TRACS is, “A one-stop support program that students can come in and get help for their mental wellness or to talk to a clinical professional.”
With National Suicide Prevention Week underway, the university urges students to use campus resources.
To lessen students’ concerns and increase answers to campus related questions, The University of Kentucky just announced a new helpline, “859-218-You-K” that students can use for access to all school needs.
The helpline connects callers to a student success team member and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.