Journey
Welcome to your Mat -Su College educational journey. There are many rewarding experiences along the path to your ultimate goal, but there will also be challenges along the way. The Journey Program focuses on health and wellness activities to build up the Mat-Su College community and to help you rise to challenges, cope with stress, and stay healthy as you make your way through this exciting, but often hectic, time in your life.
Journey-Approved Activities
- September
Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention Training
9/17 at 10 am
Zoom : https://alaska.zoom.us/j/89771479019
Description: Learn about the suicide risks, warning signs and how to communicate with someone who may be at risk. Familiarize yourself with campus & community resources in a virtual training.Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention Training
9/26 at 4 pm
Zoom : https://alaska.zoom.us/j/89771479019
Description: Learn about the suicide risks, warning signs and how to communicate with someone who may be at risk. Familiarize yourself with campus & community resources in a virtual training. - October
Relax with Therapy Dogs
10/7 - 10/10 from 10 am to 2 pm
FSM Lobby (October 9th only: location change! Therapy dogs will be in the Atrium this date due to a conflicting event. )
Description: Carole Shay from Alaska Assistance Dogs is bringing dogs Stanette and Gabe to the Mat-Su College FSM Lobby for some cuddles and hugs during mid-terms. Stop by to visit our furry friends.Nature Walk
10/23 & 10/24 at Noon
FSM Lobby
Description: Explore the extensive Mat-Su College trail system during this casual stroll. - NovemberNature Walk
11/25 & 11/26 at Noon
FSM Lobby
Description: Explore the extensive Mat-Su College trail system during this casual stroll. - DecemberRelax with Therapy Dogs
12/9 - 12/12 from 10 am to 2 pm
FSM Lobby
Description: Carole Shay from Alaska Assistance Dogs is bringing dogs Stanette and Gabe to the Mat-Su College FSM Lobby for some cuddles and hugs during finals week. Stop by to visit our furry friends. -
January
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February
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March
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April
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May
Counseling Services
Mat-Su College students may receive up to 5 free counseling appointments with an licensed behavioral health clinician. To make an appointment, call Mat-Su Health Services at 907-376-2411 and identify yourself as a Mat-Su College student. You may meet with the clinician on campus or at Mat-Su Health Services.
Mat-Su Valley Community Resources
Visit the United Way website for a complete listing of local organizations and agencies.
My Mental Health: Do I need Help?
First, determine how much your symptoms interfere with your daily life.
Do I have mild symptoms that have lasted for less than 2 weeks?
- Feeling a little down
- Feeling down, but still able to do job, schoolwork, or housework
- Some trouble sleeping
- Feeling down, but still able to take care of yourself or take care of others
If so, here are some self-care activities that can help:
- Exercising (e.g., aerobics, yoga)
- Engaging in social contact (virtual or in person)
- Getting adequate sleep on a regular schedule
- Eating Healthy
- Talking to a trusted friend or family member
- Practicing meditation, relaxation, and mindfulness
If the symptom above do not improve or seem to be worsening despite self-care efforts, talk to your health care provider.
Do I have severe symptoms that have lasted 2 weeks or more?
- Difficulty sleeping
- Appetite changes that result in unwanted weight changes
- Struggling to get out of bed in the morning because of mood
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of interest in things you usually find enjoyable
- Unable to perform usual daily functions and responsibilities
- Thoughts of death or self-harm
Seek professional help:
- Psychotherapy (talk-therapy)—virtual or in person; individual, group or family
- Medications
- Brain stimulation therapies
For help finding treatment, visit www.nimh.nih.gov/findhelp.
If you are in a crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK
(8255),
or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741).
Publications