UCO NAACP hosts event focused on mental health

At the University of Central Oklahoma, the NAACP chapter Unit 6823 hosted a Chill with NAACP night where students could relax, wear PJs, take home journals, fidget toys, and color. 

With finals coming up, the chapter recognized that students needed time to decompress, connect with others, and feel supported.

Phoebe Hilliard, the president of NAACP Unit 6823, wants to use her presidency to openly address mental health, especially among groups whose struggles often go unnoticed. She makes known that Unit 6823 is committed to uplifting everyone facing social or personal challenges. 

“We love to speak out on issues concerning men’s mental health, women, people with disabilities, the LGBTQAI+ community, and minorities in general,” said Hilliard.

During the event, attendees were also given a presentation on mental health. Hilliard covered why mental health matters, the stigma that often surrounds it, and practical coping strategies students can begin using in their daily lives.

She encouraged students to rethink the way they view mental health, reminding them that caring for the mind is just as important as caring for the body. 

Hilliard said, “When we hear about mental health, we usually go to the worst-case scenario, but in reality, you should be working daily to make sure your headspace is clean and clear.”

Special events director Ro Delgado-Hill spoke about the reality many students are facing, noting that people are juggling school, personal challenges, and stressful workloads all at once. He added that most students are trying to finish major projects and handle increasing pressure. 

“I know it’s hard times going on for everybody. Finals are coming up, big projects. I know I’m stressed, you probably are too,” said Delgado-Hill. 

Chill With NAACP provided students with an opportunity to have a break before finals, access stress-relief materials, and receive information about mental health. The event aligned with the chapter’s ongoing efforts to support student well-being and increase awareness of the challenges many students face at the end of the semester.

As NAACP Unit 6823 continues its programming, the organization plans to hold additional events and maintain its focus on providing resources, information, and community engagement for UCO students.