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Fall Term Health and Wellness Updates

Members of the Dartmouth community,

This October, I invite you to reflect on the importance of caring for our health and well-being and to participate in a series of important events that will bring us together to learn, share, and support one another. 

This year marks the two-year anniversary of Dartmouth’s Commitment to Care strategic plan for student mental health. We have made significant progress—expanded services, stronger partnerships, and broader training—but our work is not done. Events involving international experts and alumni are helping to advance our community’s understanding and proactive measures to prioritize individual and collective wellness. 

Together, we’ll keep building a campus where every community member knows how to recognize concerns, respond with care, and connect to resources when needed. We’re also highlighting prevention this fall, including flu and COVID-19 vaccines, which help protect both individual and community health. 

 

Participate in October’s events

  • Peak Bag, Oct. 5: Centered on mental health and suicide prevention, this annual event organized by alumni offers all Dartmouth community members a space to get outdoors, connect, and prioritize well-being. Engage in a wellness activity on your own or with a group, and come to the community picnic from 4-6 p.m. on Baker Lawn, co-sponsored by the house communities. Register to show your support.
  • World Mental Health Day, Oct. 10: Student researchers and coordinators on the Evergreen project invite community members to join a short walk around Occom Pond at 3 p.m., departing from Collis. From 1 to 3 p.m., the team will also host an information table there to share details about the Evergreen project with students and Homecoming alumni.
  • Commitment to Care: A Community Gathering for Student Mental Health, Oct. 22: Review two years of progress in student mental health and look ahead to the next chapter. Hear from campus leaders and partners about what’s been accomplished and where we’re going next. Registration is encouraged.

  • A Global Turning Point: Why Youth Well-Being Is In Crisis—and What We Must Do About It, Oct. 26-28: Join a timely conversation on the national and international landscape of youth mental health. Hosted by Dartmouth and the United Nations Development Programme, this three-day symposium brings together experts and advocates to discuss solutions, elevating Dartmouth’s role in shaping the future of well-being. Register to attend some or all of the sessions.

     

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines

Protecting your well-being starts with prevention—and vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have. This fall, we recommend the flu vaccine for everyone on campus and the updated COVID-19 vaccine as appropriate. Talk with your primary care provider if you have questions about timing or eligibility. October is an ideal time to get vaccinated before flu season peaks, and several flu clinics will be held on campus for all students, faculty, and staff. Face masks and antigen tests are also available to all community members at Dick’s House.

  • Students: Vaccines will be available at Dick’s House at no cost.
  • Faculty and staff: You can receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines at Dick’s House or any retail pharmacy. Dartmouth has ensured the updated COVID-19 vaccine is covered in full, with no copay, under all employee medical plans. Coverage under outside plans may vary; check with your provider. 

Taking part in these events is just one way to nurture your well-being. Please see information below to connect with more health and wellness resources. Thank you for everything you do to make Dartmouth a place where care is practiced every day. I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming events. 

 

Best,

Estevan Garcia

Chief Health and Wellness Officer

 

Flu Clinics for all students, faculty, and staff

  • Oct. 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Paganucci Lounge, ’53 Commons
  • Oct. 6, 7:30-11:30 a.m., Paganucci Lounge, ’53 Commons
  • Oct. 10, noon-3 p.m., Remsen 328, Geisel
  • Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Paganucci Lounge, ’53 Commons
  • Oct. 22, noon-2 p.m., Raether Atrium, Tuck

 

Resources for all students

 

Resources for faculty and staff