BIG EAST SAAC Wraps Mental Health Awareness Fundraising Campaign
NEW YORK -- The BIG EAST Conference Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has undertaken an initiative to build awareness of mental health and to help end the stigma surrounding it. Coming out of June's Mental Health Summit, the BIG EAST and its member schools have agreed to be committed to making the mental health of our student-athletes, coaches and school employees a pillar on which we stand.
This week, October 1 - 7, is the National Alliance on Mental Illness's (NAMI) Mental Illness Awareness Week. The BIG EAST, along with its member schools, Student Athlete Advisory Committee and its media partner FOX Sports will be promoting this national campaign through BIG EAST Digital Network broadcasts, social media and campus activities.
Get Involved:
BIG EAST SAAC will be wrapping its fundraising campaign during this fall week of awareness. To donate to NAMI through the BIG EAST Conference visit
https://www.gofundme.com/BIGEASTMHS. FOX Sports has pledged to match the donations up to $2,000. All funds raised will go to NAMI and its initiatives.
Continuing from last spring's BIG EAST 1x4 Push Up Challenge to promote Mental Health Awareness, social media hashtags to follow and promote include #BEtalktome #BIGEASTmhs.
Watch a recap of the June Mental Health Summit here.
Some Facts About Mental Health And College Students:
- 75% of all mental health conditions begin by age 24. That's why the college years are so critical for understanding and talking about mental health.
- One in five young adults will experience a mental health condition during college.
- If you develop a mental illness, remember you are not alone.
- Exercise, sleep and diet are important. Your physical health and mental health are connected and impact one another. Remember to take care of your body in order to take care of your mind.
- Know where and when to seek help, and who to talk to. Make yourself aware of resources and care options on and off campus. If you start to feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to the counseling center or a trusted advisor.
- Understand your health privacy laws. Devise a plan on whether and how you will allow your school to share sensitive information about your mental health with your family or a trusted adult. Find out if your school has an authorization form, or use the one included in our guide.
- There are warning signs. Verse yourself on the warning signs of mental health conditions and how to respond. These are available in the guide and the infographic below. Being informed can save lives.
- For more on taking care of your mental health in college, visit NAMI.org/CollegeGuide