Auburn University’s commitment to wellness
Special Mental Health Awareness Month Article
Peyton Hurst is a third-year PharmD candidate at the Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy.
The Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy APhA–ASP Chapter recognizes that mental health and wellness are essential to success in pharmacy school and beyond. With the rigorous demands placed on student pharmacists, our chapter is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment through intentional programming and collaboration.
Our dedication to service, community impact, and student well-being has been recognized through multiple local and national honors, including three consecutive nominations for Auburn University’s “Human Touch” Service Award, reflecting our commitment to cultivating sympathy, mutual helpfulness, and happiness within our community.
Spotlighting fitness and easing stress
One of the chapter’s most impactful initiatives is our annual Mental Health Awareness Week, designed to help students find balance, build connections, and prioritize self-care. Throughout the week, we host engaging activities that promote both physical and emotional well-being. A student favorite is “Sweat Off Stress,” where we partner with local fitness organizations to offer free workout classes such as HIIT and cycling. This event highlights the connection between physical activity and improved mental health while giving students a fun, engaging way to relieve stress and connect with peers outside of the classroom.
Another meaningful event is “Donut Stress,” a play on the phrase “Do Not Stress,” designed to ease anxiety surrounding postgraduation plans. In this relaxed and interactive activity, donut boxes are displayed in the college’s lobby and labeled with different pharmacy specialties and practice settings, allowing students to select a donut from the box that reflects their career interests. Supportive notes are placed throughout the display to help alleviate stress about the future. The event naturally sparks conversations among students, peers, and faculty about career paths and goals, fostering mentorship, guidance, and lasting connections while building excitement for the future.
Furry friends therapy
Connection with animals is an evidence-based way to reduce stress, improve mood, and provide comfort during demanding times. One of the week’s most popular events is the annual therapy dog visit, hosted in partnership with Auburn University’s Student Counseling & Psychological Services, where dogs and their handlers are available between classes. The success of this activity has inspired organized group walks around campus, where students can bring their own dogs or join peers for a relaxing social experience that promotes movement and mindfulness.
Openly discussed, actively supported, and deeply valued
While Mental Health Awareness Week provides a focused lens on emotional well-being, the chapter promotes wellness year-round, ensuring mental health is consistently prioritized. Through ongoing programming and collaboration, the chapter is committed to fostering a culture in which mental health is openly discussed, actively supported, and deeply valued. This commitment is reflected in community outreach initiatives such as overdose awareness and sensitivity certification training, substance use education, and health fairs. These efforts help equip students and community members with the knowledge and resources needed to support overall well-being.
By emphasizing mental health consistently, our chapter strengthens compassion and resilience while preparing student pharmacists to become empathetic, patient-centered providers and advocates for mental health in their future practice.