as A D E NT Mental Health Initiative by Kaiden Myers Mitko is a senior studying Business Administration and Psychology. He learned about peer counseling in the Fall of 2019 when Ms.Tuzlukova-Vets ova sent a student-wide email introducing the program. Those interested would reply and have a brief informal interview on motivations to join. Chris, a first-year student also studying Business Administration and Psychology, became a peer counselor in the spring when Professor Harvey suggested the work after class. The Counseling Center’s Peer Education Program is a twoyear program where AUBG students can implement numerous outreach events and gain skills in counseling services as a peer counselor. Chris described Me as a Student as a “podcast without the mics.” Students get a chance to gather and decompress, releasing whatever strains come to mind in a constructive setting in hope to develop new habits. “Definitely talking with people is incredibly beneficial. We’re social creatures, at the end of the day, so we have that instinct.” On the topic of mental health, Chris mentioned people are prone to being closed off, settling for quick solutions or eliminating emotions instead of combating the problem. “A lot of people ignore their mental health. They focus too much on resilience and enduring pain rather than trying to fix things.” He said how mental and physical health is intertwined, crediting habits as a surefire way to improving overall wellbeing. “You need to find a way to live more healthily, more easily. Habits just goes on their own at some point, and you don’t even have to think about it. Mitko said that letting loose and talking about one’s issues, no matter the size, is a big takeaway from the program. “You feel calmer. I didn’t expect a regular talk at an hour and a half would have that effect,” he said. He also noticed how people’s free time is frequently alone watching Netflix or going to parties at Underground. “Having time for yourself is very important as well, but social activity should not be underestimated. Calm, regular meetings with several people just doing something is a lot better.” The peer counseling team plans on continuing Me as a Student throughout the semester and in the future. Mitko and Chris both believe that the program has huge potential for growth. “For everybody that’s out there suffering in some way, you’re not alone,” said Chris. “If you have an issue, you can always talk with us, the peer counseling team. Also, psychologists, licensed professionals. But sometimes somebody who’s completely unaware of your problem, someone you just met or that is close to you, that may be enough.” Mitko Donev. Photo courtesy of Mitko Donev 5 Fall 2022 | AUBG Daily
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