Fostering Well-being

Research has shown that students struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression at higher rates than the general population. While some stress and uncertainty is unavoidable in training, research mentors can have a direct impact on the well-being of members of their research group. By recognizing how usual norms and practices in the academy create environments that can undermine wellbeing, particularly for minoritized students, we can become more thoughtful about the impact of our own behavior in as mentors-- and begin to foster research and learning environments that support well-being. This workshop will also encourage discussion about how mentoring can positively and negatively impact mentees’ sense of autonomy, competence, personal growth, and belonging. Developing the skills to have open conversations about the often stigmatized topics of mental health well-being is key to this process.