Welcome back!

Welcome to the very first edition of Finds You Well — your dose of real talk, tips and stories from across the UT System about what it really means to take care of yourself. This time of year can be exciting, overwhelming and everything in between, so let’s kick things off together.

Not everyone feels “fine” all the time — and that’s OK. As students, faculty and staff, we often answer with, “I’m good,” when inside, we’re craving space to be real. Vulnerability is powerful: it helps us feel understood, less alone and challenges the stigma around mental health.

That’s why the UT System is launching this wellness newsletter. Through our student wellness advisory council, we’ll share stories, bust myths and provide tips to build a more open and supportive culture across all five universities.

I know the struggle firsthand. As an undergrad, I wrestled with depression and perfectionism and eventually asked for help. It wasn’t easy, but it changed my life and inspired me to make sure others don’t feel the shame or guilt I once did.

Whether you’re thriving, surviving or somewhere in between, your story matters. Together, we can change the narrative around wellness. You in?

Kadi Sizemore, UTK

Doing your best (noun): what you can reasonably accomplish without spiraling into an existential crisis or forgetting how to be a person.

Contrary to popular belief, our best is not measured by how well we operate on four hours of sleep or how long we skip joy for productivity.

Our best includes knowing our limits, needs and value. It also includes snacks, breaks, boundaries and the occasional nap that accidentally lasts three hours.

Remember, success isn’t linear. Life isn’t a productivity contest. So, as classes start back, let’s not “hit the ground running.” Let’s walk in with intention.

Now, some tips to start the semester as a mindful marathon — not a frantic sprint trying not to spill your coffee while holding back tears as your sock slips down into your shoe:

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — free, confidential support 24/7.

Faith Brown, UTHSC

Transitions can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time on a college campus or you’re a seasoned grad student, the unknown — mixed with excitement — can bring worry and stress. But you can take back control.

No matter how you kick off the year, investing a little time in your wellness now will pay off later. Getting familiar with your campus resources early can make everything feel more manageable. It’s a smart investment, and knowing where to start makes all the difference.

Here are some quick and easy tips to make the most out of your first few weeks back:

Rachel Sinclair, UTHSC

First week of classes. A sea of students flows through campus. I’m swept into a forceful current of everyone moving with purpose, like they know exactly where they’re going. I check my map — again — trying not to look lost. I’m a helpless bobber in the waves. Is it this building or the next? I don’t know, but everyone else seems to. Scanning for signs, I finally spot the building and swim out of the rip current toward the shore.

As relief washes over me, I begin to wonder if this feeling isn’t just about being lost on campus, but about finding direction too. Our inner critic insists that we’re the only one behind or that everyone else has their life mapped out — they know their majors, careers, clubs, friends and direction — but that’s not true. The ones who look the most confident? They might be just as lost. Another tiny bobber in a vast sea.

I don’t fully know where I’m headed either. Just like you, I’m figuring it out as I go. We all are. And if there’s one thing I’m sure of, it’s this: you’ll find your classes, and along the way, you’ll find your path too. 

One important thing to keep in mind is that when you’re trying to figure it out, it’s okay to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask someone near you where a certain building is or ask an advisor for guidance on picking a major. When we’re honest that we need help to navigate our lives, the conversation becomes easier for everyone who feels they’re doing it alone. 

Haley Duerr, UTC

"When I feel like the little things are all adding up to be too much, I think about them and realize I am not in peril,” says Elizabeth, a political science major and longtime member of the recovery community. She’s learned how to hold steady through life’s turbulence.

“I’ve been in recovery for six years, and that’s shaped how I see everything now.”

As she looks forward to the fall semester, she credits much of her strength to the UT recovery program, especially to the program’s director.

“They remind me I don’t have to carry it all alone.” Whether she’s in class, in community spaces or just walking through campus, Elizabeth brings with her a quiet steadiness and a sense of hope that others can feel.

Elizabeth's story is a reminder that no one has to walk the recovery journey alone. Students across the UT System can connect with programs like Mocs Recovery (UT Chattanooga), Rocky Top Recovery (UT Knoxville) or external resources like AA, Al-Anon or SAMHSA for support and community.

Want to try a simple activity? For one week, log the small hassles in your day — traffic, long lines or delays — and note how they affect your mood. At week’s end, reflect on what you’ve learned. Awareness is the first step to healing, and it begins with noticing without judgment.

Noah Hamlett, UTK

When I transferred from Pellissippi State to UT Knoxville, I thought it’d be easy to make friends in such a big place, but most people already had their circles. It took a lot of effort to put myself out there and find my place. One thing that really helped me was this episode of Auburn University’s "Well Yeah!" podcast, where other students share their experiences about making friends on campus. Whether you’re a freshman or a transfer student, finding your people can be the thing that makes campus feel like home!

Listen to the podcast here →

Know someone who could use a little encouragement, a fresh perspective or just a reminder they’re not alone? Forward this email and have them subscribe.

Follow UT Wellness on social and visit our website. Want to see something in a future issue? Write chiefwellnessofficer@tennessee.edu with ideas and suggestions.