What do safe sex, mental health, alcohol, drugs and respect have in common? They’re the four central topics IU’s Culture of Care Week aims to spread awareness about.
One in 10 college students has been diagnosed with depression, and over half have faced overwhelming anxiety. Over 60% of students have witnessed an alcohol-related emergency. Culture of Care hopes to give students resources to take action and have the courage to care for others.
The initiative began in 2017 and aims to bolster “Hoosier-to-Hoosier” care on IU’s campus and promote understanding in four core areas. It will host weeklong free events beginning Nov. 4, with each day centering on a specific focus.
Monday’s event, “Hole in One,” from 10 a.m. to noon in the Ballantine Hall lobby, will concentrate on drug and alcohol awareness. The event features donuts, cup pong and information about campus resources and Indiana’s Lifeline Law, which protects underage people who call for medical assistance regarding an alcohol-related emergency.
Culture of Care’s “Respect Fest,” takes place Tuesday from 3-6 p.m. in the Indiana Memorial Union Frangipani Room. Select student organizations will provide information about their work and diversity within IU.
The mental health event, “Building Healthy Habits,” will take place from 2-4 p.m., Wednesday in the IMU tabling area. This event spotlights health habit resources and features a LEGO activity.
On Thursday, a “Network and Chill” event will highlight the Culture of Care and other student service organizations and share information about their causes. It will take place from 1-3 p.m. in the IMU Federal Room.
“Safe Sex and Sweet Treats” emphasizes education about healthy and safe sex. From noon to 2 p.m., Friday, in the Ballantine Hall lobby, students can get donuts, cookies and condoms.
