When people talk about college, they usually mention the fun parts—making new friends, attending events or starting fresh. However, for some people, there's a side to college that isn’t talked about as much, such as struggling with loneliness, worrying about money or questioning your ability to make it to graduation. If you're feeling this way, you're not alone—and there are ways to get through it to ensure your time at UIS is positive!

Dear Faculty and Staff —

It is that time in the year when the number of people struggling with their mental health typically increases. Common themes include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and difficulties with interpersonal relationships. Though these struggles are often expressed at the individual level, they often arise from systemic issues in our environment and culture. We all have an opportunity to create a supportive environment for learning and growth.

The start of a new academic year is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming experience for new students, especially when it comes to finding yourself, getting involved, establishing a community and excelling in your classes. At the University of Illinois Springfield, there are many opportunities available that will allow you to engage with your peers, develop meaningful connections and access resources that will help you shine as our newest Prairie Star. Curious to know how you can find your community at UIS? We have solutions!

Dear UIS Students and Employees:

UIS is committed to maintaining a drug-free environment for its students and employees, in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Our Drug Prevention Policy and Program was prepared in accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989.

The top 3 things to maintaining mental and physical health in college is sleep, nutrition and movement.

As we approach mid-semester, the many responsibilities that our students are balancing may begin to feel overwhelming for them. They may be experiencing the stress of mid-term exams, missing loved ones, worry about world events, or financial stress. Keeping our students healthy is one way to limit the impact of these often-unavoidable life challenges. Some basic strategies for students include good sleep, hygiene, daily movement, and proper nutrition.

As the weather gets colder and we engage in more indoor activities, our risk of illness increases, including cold, flu, RVS, COVID-19, and many other illnesses. One of the best strategies is always prevention. Please consider getting an updated vaccine to help keep yourself and others safe.

You Deserve a Break Today!

A ‘break’ can have several meanings, but the common themes are to have fun, relax, and be safe. Break time may take the form of a trip south to relax by the ocean during the day and to further unwind in the evening at restaurants/clubs. However, even though most of us are not taking trips South for the week, we are still entitled to relax.

How this is possible without physically getting away from everything?

Self-esteem: How to Get it and Keep it

Have you ever had family, friends or teachers say unpleasant things to you? Have you failed at something you have tried to accomplish, or felt as if you canít do anything right? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, please know that you are not alone. Everyone, at some point in his/her life, has encountered one or more of these situations. When a situation like this occurs, it may influence the development of your self-esteem. Self-esteem can be defined as the way we feel about and value ourselves.