Wellness in the PSD

Wellness is a vital component of the graduate student experience. The PSD encourages students to balance their academic pursuits with taking good care of themselves, utilizing resources for well-being, and connecting with others in the PSD and the broader University and Chicago communities. 

The Dean of Students Office will host events and initiatives each quarter to provide students opportunities to focus on wellness. Students will receive additional details about events and initiatives via email and the student newsletter. These events are open to all PSD students. 

Additional wellness resources are available below. 

Jump to Autumn Quarter 2024

Jump to Winter Quarter 2025

Jump to Spring Quarter 2025

Autumn Quarter 2024

PSD Wellness and Resources Fair

October 1, 2024, 1 - 3 pm | Location: ERC 161 and Atrium (5640 South Ellis Ave)

Featuring therapy dogs, wellness resources from around campus, opportunities to meet other students, fun activities, and more.

PSD Study Break

October 15, 2024, 1 - 2 pm | Location: ERC 161 (5640 South Ellis Ave)

Students are invited to take a brief break with their peers. The Study Breaks will feature snacks, coffee and tea, and an opportunity to socialize with your peers and engage in relaxing activities. Past activities have included jigsaw puzzles, origami, Sudoku, and coloring pages to encourage relaxation and mindfulness. 

PSD Study Break

November 12, 2024, 1 - 2 pm | Location: ERC 161 (5640 South Ellis Ave)

Students are invited to take a brief break with their peers. The Study Breaks will feature snacks, coffee and tea, and an opportunity to socialize with your peers and engage in relaxing activities. Past activities have included jigsaw puzzles, origami, Sudoku, and coloring pages to encourage relaxation and mindfulness. 

Winter Quarter 2025 

Winter Warm-Up

January 14, 2025, 1 - 2 pm | Location: ERC 161 (5640 South Ellis Ave)

Students will be invited to warm up during Chicago's coldest months by grabbing a hot chocolate, tea, or coffee and some sweet treats. We encourage students to take a short break from studying or research and receive free treats.

PSD Study Break

February 11, 2025, 1 - 2 pm | Location: ERC 161 (5640 South Ellis Ave)

Students are invited to take a brief break with their peers. The Study Breaks will feature snacks, coffee and tea, and an opportunity to socialize with your peers and engage in relaxing activities. Past activities have included jigsaw puzzles, origami, Sudoku, and coloring pages to encourage relaxation and mindfulness. 

Spring Quarter 2025

PSD Study Break

April 1, 2025, 1 - 2 pm | Location: ERC 161 (5640 South Ellis Ave)

Please stop by for a free coffee or tea and a sweet treat. PSD MS and PhD students are welcome.

PSD Plant Giveaway

April 2025 - Details to be announced

Recent studies have shown that interactions with nature and plants can help reduce physiological and psychological stress and increase happiness, productivity and creativity. The Dean of Students Office will offer a free plant to PSD students who sign up for this event. Details, including information about how to sign up, will be sent via email. 

Wellness Resources for Students