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Music has been shown to have a profound impact on mental health and well-being. Engaging with music can evoke emotions, provide a sense of comfort, and serve as a form of self-expression. Research suggests that listening to music can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and even improve mood and sleep quality. It has also been found to enhance cognitive function and promote relaxation. Additionally, actively participating in music through singing or playing an instrument can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. Overall, music has the power to uplift and soothe the mind, making it a valuable resource for promoting mental well-being

“Gratitude is affirming the goodness in one’s life and recognizing that its source lies outside the self,” says Robert Emmons, PhD, a professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis, and author of The Little Book of Gratitude. The article points out the physical and mental health benefits of gratitude, and it includes practical ways to recognize “the goodness in one’s life” everyday: https://www.prevention.com/life/a25241089/benefits-of-gratitude/ Looking to explore more about gratitude in your life? The counselors at the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help you gain additional tools and skills around gratitude practices. The EAP’s short-term counseling services are free and confidential. To schedule an appointment, you can call 512-471-3366 or email eap@austin.utexas.edu.

The phrase “self-esteem” describes how one sees their own value and worth, and i is made up of a number of components, including perceptions of ourselves and the perceptions of others. These perceptions are influenced by a myriad of factors such as stress, genetics, family dyanmics, discrimination, and illnesses. The following article discusses examples of low, healthy, and excessive self- esteem and gives practical ways to improve your self-esteem. For example, practicing self-care and self- compassion or rejecting comparisons and perfectionism are methods of improving your self-esteem.

Campus has re-opened and the snow has melted from Winter Storm Uri last week, and yet for many of us the impacts continue to linger in many ways.