As students at The University of Southern Mississippi prepare for midterms, the Southern Miss Activities Council (SMAC) hosted a Mental Health Day to provide students with a chance to unwind and de-stress. SMAC, a student-run and student-funded organization, regularly plans educational and entertaining events, including at least one mental health-focused activity each semester.
This semester’s event featured activities designed to help students manage stress, such as creating miniature Zen gardens. Students used sand, rocks, marbles, and other items to craft their gardens, which are intended to provide ongoing relaxation. Other activities included painting smooth rocks and plates, making bead necklaces, and enjoying snacks provided by SMAC.
Local caricature artist Ricky Nobile also participated, offering free caricatures to students throughout the event, which ran from 7 to 9 p.m.
The event was coordinated by senior Jardashia Williams, a first-year member of the SMAC general body.
“I think that as students we get so caught up with classwork and life things that we need a space to decompress and take a minute to breathe,” Williams said. “This event is always special to me because it gives students that relief that they need.”
Williams also noted how impactful SMAC has been in her college experience, providing her with connections to other students while engaging in fun activities on campus.
SMAC member Alexis Smith shared similar sentiments about the organization and the event.
“The thing I enjoy the most about SMAC is how close we all are,” Smith said. “We all hang out with each other outside of events, and our group truly feels like a family. I think many students get so focused on coming to college just to graduate that they feel like the only thing they can do is finish their schoolwork. This event gives them the chance to take a small break and do something for themselves.”
With a large turnout, students enjoyed creating art and line dancing with peers, offering a welcome respite before the stress of midterms.
