The University of Houston has implemented the Unwind with Wellness Wednesday programming for students to focus on their mental and physical well-being.
In order to support its students during difficult academic periods, the University of Houston (UH) Campus Recreation collaborates with the UH Wellness to help run its Unwind with Wellness Wednesday programs.
The Unwind with Wellness Wednesday program is a series of weekly events during the spring and fall semesters. Designed to give students a break from the academic grind, these events feature activities that focus on decompressing. The rec department provides physical activities like yoga, informational sessions with instructors, message therapy and more. These weekly events allow students to learn what their rec department has to offer but also prompts students to focus on their holistic well-being.
“UH Wellness recognized the need for consistent opportunities where students could take a break and focus on their well-being,” explained Dani Willis, the fitness program manager for Campus Recreation. “The program was created as a way to integrate wellness into students’ routines.”
Campus Community
By making the Unwind with Wellness Wednesday a weekly occurrence, UH Campus Recreation and UH Wellness are able to continue fostering the conversation about health and well-being. This programming also contributes to the overarching message on mental health that UH continues to emphasize.
“Unwind with Wellness Wednesday has fostered a culture where mental and holistic health is openly discussed and prioritized,” said Willis. “It has encouraged students to seek help when needed and participate in wellness initiatives. Over time, the program has contributed to a more supportive and health-conscious campus community.”
The majority of college students — more than 60% — meet the criteria for at least one mental health problem. This is a nearly 50% increase since 2013, according to the Healthy Minds survey, published in 2023. With many students struggling, it’s important they have resources to help them improve their mental health. One way they can do so is through exercise. Research by the Mental Health Foundation shows that doing exercise releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins in the brain. Even a short burst of 10 minutes brisk walking can improve mental alertness, energy and mood. Programming focused on holistic health can benefit students by giving them the physical release they need and providing a safe space to release pent-up stress.
Students enjoyed attending Unwind with Wellness Wednesday as the events foster both personal well-being and community. While focusing on themselves as individuals is important, another factor to maintaining good mental health is the support of their community.
“Students have responded positively, often expressing gratitude for a space where they can unwind without judgment,” said Willis. “Many share these events make them feel cared for and less alone, especially during stressful times like midterms or finals.”
One key factor to maintaining mental health is having connections with their peers. The events facilitate the creation of social bonds, which makes students feel connected with their community. Just another way the Unwind with Wellness program supports students in their holistic health journey.
Event Staffing
In order to support students in their holistic health journeys, these events need staff and volunteers. Finding these people can be tricky. However, reaching into your community to emphasize the importance of health can be the key to running a smooth event.
“We staff our instructors and trainers to attend the events at the beginning of the semester, which has helped us cover some of the events,” said Willis. “We also use resources on campus such as the Metropolitan Volunteer Program.”
Collaboration and Promotion
While volunteers and staff are necessary to run the program, collaboration between UH Campus Recreation and UH Wellness strengthens the events. Ultimately, both departments have the same goal: keep their students healthy.
“One example of our collaboration is during the Love Every Body Week,” said Willis. “UH Wellness offers DIY projects and positive affirmation activities, and we integrate fitness components. We look forward to continuing and expanding our partnership with UH Wellness to further enhance the impact of our shared initiatives.”
Another benefit of interdepartmental collaboration is that both departments can promote their own events. If a student enjoys the fitness component of the Unwind with Wellness Wednesday, this opens the door to future recreation department activities. Introducing students to the rec department’s offerings is the first step in obtaining higher levels of engagement.
“Work collaboratively with other departments to support their health and wellness programs and events,” advised Willis. “Use these opportunities to promote your own programs and services. This approach helps you engage with new audiences you might not have reached otherwise.”
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