Members of the Dartmouth community,

We are making significant strides in fostering a strong, supportive community that prioritizes well-being across all dimensions. I’m writing to share some timely information and also to invite you to explore this spring's community programs, learn about Dartmouth’s innovative research on mental health, and track our progress on the Commitment to Care strategic plan.

Measles timely information

As travelers return to campus, we are closely monitoring the rise in measles cases across the United States. If you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing any symptoms, we strongly encourage you to check with a primary care provider before returning to campus. The measles vaccine is highly effective and students can check their vaccine status by logging into the Student Health Service portal. Face masks are available to all community members at designated campus locations. Dartmouth Student Health Service provides reliable information on measles symptoms, transmission, treatment, and vaccination.

Spring term programs

From April 1-7, you can explore the intersection of mindfulness practices and the scientific process through events organized by the Tucker Center and the Student Wellness Center and the Geisel School of Medicine. Register for Zen and the Mindful Art of Living, and join monastics from Thich Nhat Hanh’s tradition of engaged Buddhism in guided meditation practices, talks, and discussions, followed by The Buddha The Scientist Symposium, with a keynote address by Jon Kabat-Zinn, who created Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction as a non-pharmacological approach for chronic illnesses.

Remember, weekly well-being programming is open to all, and you can find a variety of offerings, ranging from a few minutes to full classes, in-person or virtual, to suit your schedule. You may also use Headspace, the mindfulness and meditation app, at no cost, to access guided exercises for meditation, sleep, focus, and movement. In May, Wellness at Dartmouth, in collaboration with the Student Wellness Center and the Mindful Dartmouth Initiative, launches activities and resources for Mindful May, part of Mental Health Action Month.

I especially want to recognize our faculty and staff for their dedication to strengthening our vibrant and inclusive environment. Your well-being is important to our community, and we are continuing to work to better address your needs. I encourage you to explore the variety of no-cost programs and resources including wellness benefits, emotional well-being support tools such as the Faculty/Employee Assistance Program, webinars, and One Medical at Dartmouth.

Mental health innovation

Reflecting on my first year at Dartmouth, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to support the health and well-being of all members of our community and appreciate hearing about the concerns that matter most to you. I’m energized by the progress we are making on Dartmouth’s Commitment to Care, our strategic plan for supporting student mental health and well-being.

Many campus partners are collaborating with creativity and innovation to center well-being in our community. Last week’s AI and Student Mental Health Symposium explored next-generation innovative solutions to promote mental health, while wellness credit options for undergraduate students are expanding opportunities to learn more about dialogue, self-care, and balance.

I look forward to continuing our important work together. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community of growth and learning.

Best wishes,

Estevan Garcia

Chief Health and Wellness Officer

Health and Wellness Resources

For all students

• Mental Health and Well-Being: Comprehensive resources for eight dimensions of well-being and Commitment to Care strategic plan.
• Student Health Service: Inpatient Nursing, Primary Care, Pharmacy, Counseling Center. For 24/7 counseling resources, call the Counseling Center at 603-646-9442, or call Uhelp Crisis Line at 1-833-646-1526.
• Student Wellness Center
• Equal Opportunity, Accessibility, and Title IX

For faculty and staff

• Wellness at Dartmouth
• Faculty/Employee Assistance Program
• One Medical at Dartmouth Primary Care Practice

Face mask locations

• ’53 Commons
• Berry Library Circulation Desk
• Bissel/Cohen Lounge
• Brace Commons
• Borwell Stockroom
• Brown/Little Lounge
• Butterfield Hall/Russell Sage Hall Hyphen Lounge
• Collis Front Desk
• Dick’s House Lobby
• Fahey Hall/McLane Hall Lounge
• French Hall Lounge
• House Center A
• House Center B
• Judge Hall Lounge