Health and Wellness
VMI’s Cadet Health and Wellness services and programs encourage cadets to strive for balance and well-being.
Throughout the year, cadets receive information on alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; nutrition; stress management; sleep hygiene; interpersonal relationships; resiliency; and the benefits of physical activity. Health and wellness programs focus on education, prevention, and awareness through various mediums such as the Cadet Health and Wellness Fair; “HEADliners;” monthly newsletter, the Cadet Health and Wellness Instagram page; partnering with community agencies to provide events during high stress times; individual nutrition consultations; through tobacco cessation products and tools; and as needed or upon request.
General Health Topics and Links
- Centers For Disease Control and Prevention - Health Topics A to Z
- MedlinePlus - Health Topics A-Z
- National Institutes of Health – Clear Health A-Z
- ULifeline
Light Therapy
Light therapy involves daily, scheduled exposure to intense levels of artificial light and is used to regulate seasonal mood swings, improve sleep patterns, and enhance feelings of well-being. Not only is light therapy beneficial for seasonal affective disorder, but also for the treatment of chronic non-seasonal depression. The light therapy box is recommended for use in intervals of 20 to 30 minutes, which compares to the level of exposure an individual would receive on a walk outside on a sunny day. During light therapy, cadets can read, listen to music, practice mindfulness, work on a computer, or simply relax. Light therapy is not intended for use by everyone; cadets with symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder, currently on prescription medications, a history of eye conditions, should speak with a physician prior to beginning light therapy.
Resource Library
Various resource materials and self-help books are available for loan at the CCC. You are invited to come explore the resource library and pick out materials of interest.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR CADETS
VMI invites you to the anonymous online screening module for mood disorders, alcohol, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Find information related to common questions about mental health from Mental Health America, a leading nonprofit in the field.
Resources are available for VMI cadets on important topics related to well-being and mental health. [requires VMI log-in credentials]
VMI cadets have FREE access to virtual care services with TimelyCare — the virtual health and well-being platform designed for university students.