Olivet Expands Mental Health Support for Students

By Brooklyn Page

Echo File Photo

OLIVET, Mich. ­­­­— The University of Olivet has been open for four weeks, and fliers from the Health and Wellness Center are everywhere. The center offers resources to help students with mental health challenges, including addiction recovery support, access to over-the-counter medications, and a Zen room for relaxation.

Robin Luckadoo Chadderdon, Director of Counseling, Health and Wellness on campus, holds a doctorate in human services and has more than 30 years of counseling experience that guides her approach in running the center at UO.

"We have three peer coaches who each handle their own type of health problems," Luckadoo Chadderdon said. "They each have 20 hours of course experience to know what they are doing. We also have an LGBTQ+ group called Pride and Place, where anyone can come, talk, and feel safe."

Kaitlin Dyer is one of the peer coaches at UO. This is her first year as a peer coach; last year, she was part of the Collegiate Recovery Program. Dyer creates many posters around campus to promote wellness programs.

"I think Olivet takes mental health seriously. We put the energy and time into giving students help," Dyer said. "It shows our dedication to making these groups work."

Emily Davies is a student at the University of Olivet. She has visited the Health and Wellness Center but was not aware of all the groups and resources UO offers. Davies said she believes Olivet takes mental health seriously and would recommend the center to friends who need support.

"It is a big topic that a lot of people take very seriously. It is something that people can relate to," Davies said.

If you are struggling or feeling anxious, reach out to Chadderdon at the Health and Wellness Center, Room 212 in the Mott Academic Center. You can also email Counseling@UOlivet.edu. In an emergency, call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 517-346-8318.