University of Illinois System

Tips for faculty to promote a culture of well-being

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  • Acknowledge the parallel stressors facing students and faculty, especially during times of trauma and uncertainty, such as the COVID pandemic or racial injustice events.

    • "The pandemic is causing everyone to feel stressed out and isolated."

    • "When I have grant or publication deadlines, I have to work hard on balancing my stress level."

  • Emphasize the importance of well-being and self-care, and acknowledge it may be challenging to attend to personal well-being in environments that stress competition and achievement.

    • "Taking care of yourself (e.g. exercising, sleeping) is not a side activity that only matters if you can fit it into your schedule."

    • "Learning is not simply the completion of academic tasks; it relies on sufficient energy, time and space to absorb what is taught."

    • "Provide examples of how to take care of your own mental health."

  • Emphasize the importance of well-being and self-care, and acknowledge it may be challenging to attend to personal well-being in environments that stress competition and achievement.

    • "Taking care of yourself (e.g. exercising, sleeping) is not a side activity that only matters if you can fit it into your schedule."

    • "Learning is not simply the completion of academic tasks; it relies on sufficient energy, time and space to absorb what is taught."

    • "Provide examples of how to take care of your own mental health."

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