How Mental Health Advocacy Changed a Sisterhood

The few years a college student spends on campus can be some of the most exciting, thrilling, and memorable times of their life. But while they are experiencing these many highs, more than they care to admit sometimes, they may experience a few lows in between. Caroline Osler, a member of Alpha Phi at Butler University (Epsilon Beta) and a member of Butler’s Panhellenic Executive Council, recognized this in herself and her chapter sisters and has helped redefine their understanding and prioritization of their own mental health.

“Being the director of health and wellness education for my chapter meant that I could bring my passion for mental health and well-being to so many women who meant so much to me,” said Caroline. “Once I got the position, it gave me the platform to raise awareness for mental health, reduce the stigma around it, as well as help people become more aware of things they did on a daily basis that could impact someone else’s mental well-being.”

While living in the Alpha Phi chapter house, Caroline would write affirmations and hang them up around the house for all members and guests to see as a reminder. She also organized mindfulness events such as printing out fun coloring pages, puzzles, and more. Each week, she would also send out resources on how sisters could improve their mental health in little or big ways.

Caroline emphasized how important it is that other sorority chapters consider this role in their sisterhoods. “Having a position like this one that promotes good mental health and well-being in a sorority is vital. Mental health is something that exists outside of the sorority experience and outside of college itself. It’s easier to talk about it when you and your sisters are creating a culture where everyone understands its importance.”

“Mental health is something that exists outside of the sorority experience and outside of college itself.”

Caroline Osler

Caroline’s Helpful Tips and Tricks

Balancing homework, sorority life, and relaxation time can often feel overwhelming or even impossible. But we have a few helpful tricks on little ways you can take some time to prioritize your mental health and well-being throughout your week:

Get a good night’s sleep

Everyone has stayed up late working on a big project or assignment, but prioritizing your hours of sleep can help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated for your morning ahead.

Go outside

Going on a walk with your sorority sisters or other close friends can help clear your mind of some of the stresses in your life that day or week! Plus it’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy your campus.

Set limits on your screen time

Everyone can get caught up in endlessly scrolling through social media platforms every now and then, but only allowing yourself a certain amount of time each day to be on social media can help keep you sharp and focused to finish any assignments or tasks you may need to complete.

Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet

Prioritizing your physical health is just as important as maintaining your mental health. Make sure you and your friends are having wholesome meals and packing healthy snacks you may need throughout your day so you can be fueled for further success.

Schedule time for yourself

Marking “you time” on your calendar, even if it’s blocking out time during the day to watch your favorite television show or movie, can positively affect your mental health. Grab your sisters to do a face mask or talk about your day can help you feel better and prepare you to take on the rest of your week.