The San José State Student Wellness Center hosted a Managing and Honoring Powerful Emotions mental health workshop by David Emmert, a licensed clinical psychologist and a counselor at SJSU.
The Wellness Center provides students with access to care for their mental and physical well-being by promoting counseling and wellness services, according to its website.
“I've been providing many different workshops throughout the years and I partially focus on students managing anxiety,” Emmert said.
Emmert said it can be life-changing for students to have a safe space to learn more about mental health.
A survey conducted by Best Colleges revealed that 36% of college students in the last 12 months have been diagnosed with anxiety, according to its website.
Emmert said it is so important to provide education and skills to come together to learn more about mental health.
“I’m inspired by our students and grateful to have chances to both share and learn from them,” he said.
Emmert said a workshop is a powerful way to reach out to students, especially for those who have never gone to counseling before.
He said one of the most common difficulties is taking that first step of asking for help.
“I've had the pleasure of meeting with so many students who have said it's one of the best steps they have taken,” Emmert said.
He said activities such as journaling, speaking to a supportive friend or being able to talk to a counselor can go a long way.
Psychology junior Felicia Zamora said discussions like these promote awareness.
“I came here because I wanted to learn more about how to manage powerful emotions,” Zamora said. “And I got what I expected and even more information.”
Zamora said mental health is just as important as physical health and that it is very underrated.
She said openly discussing mental health and the benefits of healthy coping mechanisms is a great way to promote mental health awareness.
“It has to do with our history,” Zamora said. “A lot of people in our generation grew up with families who discouraged getting help with our mental health.”
She said people can practice doing mindfulness when they are struggling mentally.
Zamora said one easy method to practice is taking two minutes to breathe in and out.
“As students, we can spread the word, talk with our peers and be emotionally supportive,” Zamora said.
Brenda Feldman, an English graduate student, said students all have emotions and it's helpful to have someone to talk to about them.
She said her favorite part of the workshop was the meditation because it was relaxing to just close her eyes and be aware of her surroundings.
“Going to a psychologist doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you,” Feldman said. “I feel like I have more knowledge about my emotions now.”
