May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month
This month, we “Go Gray” to raise awareness, honor those living with brain tumors, remember loved ones lost, and support families, caregivers, researchers, and healthcare professionals working toward better treatment and care.
Brain tumors can affect people in many different ways, including changes in movement, memory, communication, learning, vision, emotions, and daily functioning. Awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages early support, and reminds our community that no one should face these challenges alone.
At UMBC, SDS recognizes the importance of access, understanding, and inclusive support for students navigating health conditions and disabilities. This May, let’s take time to learn, share resources, and stand with those impacted by brain tumors.
May 18th is HIV Vaccine Awareness Day
HIV Vaccine Awareness Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the ongoing efforts to develop safe and effective vaccines to prevent HIV, while recognizing the researchers, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and advocates working to end the HIV epidemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HIV remains a major public health issue, but continued research, education, and prevention efforts have helped improve outcomes and save lives worldwide.
Observed every year on May 18, this day highlights the importance of scientific research, community participation, and equal access to healthcare resources. It also recognizes the progress made through global partnerships while emphasizing the continued need for prevention, treatment, education, and support services. HIV Vaccine Awareness Day encourages individuals and communities to stay informed and support efforts aimed at creating a future free from HIV.
You can take action by:
• Learning and sharing facts about HIV prevention and vaccine research
• Supporting organizations focused on HIV education and healthcare access
• Encouraging open conversations to reduce stigma surrounding HIV
Key prevention efforts to know include: routine HIV testing, using preventive tools such as PrEP, avoiding stigma and discrimination, and supporting access to healthcare and education for vulnerable communities.
Together, we can continue advancing research, promoting education, and supporting healthier communities for everyone.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
This year’s theme from @NAMICommunicate for Mental Health Awareness Month is: "Stigma grows in silence. Healing begins in community." Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, identity questions, or simply adjusting to college life, your experiences matter, and your strength is real.
Here at UMBC, Retriever Integrated Health (RIH) offers a range of supportive mental health services to help students care for their emotional and psychological well-being. RIH provides individual and single-session therapy to assist with managing stress, relationships, identity, and academic pressures. Group counseling options help students connect with peers in a safe and supportive environment, while workshops teach practical skills to manage anxiety, improve sleep, boost time management, and recognize signs of crisis. Peer support and skill-building resources are also available to empower students with tools to thrive both personally and academically.
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Whether you’re navigating daily stress, big life transitions, or just trying to stay balanced during finals, these six strategies can help support your emotional well-being:
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Talk to someone you trust: Staying connected is key. Reach out to a friend, professor, or mental health professional. You’re never a burden.
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Look after your physical health: Prioritize sleep, movement, hydration, and balanced meals. Small habits can make a big impact.
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Do things that bring you joy: Whether it's creating art, playing sports, or spending time with loved ones, engaging in meaningful activities can improve your mood and reduce stress.
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Steer away from harmful substances: Avoid using drugs or alcohol to cope. They often worsen mental health in the long run.
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Establish a routine: Structure and consistency can provide stability, especially during uncertain or high-stress times.
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Seek professional help: At UMBC, Retriever Integrated Health (RIH) offers individual therapy, group counseling, workshops, and peer-based skill-building to help students navigate life and mental health challenges.
Mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. What matters most is finding what works for you and knowing support is available.
Learn more about mental health services at UMBC: studenthealth.umbc.edu
National mental health resources: nami.org/mham
You don’t have to go through anything alone.
- Visit the Center for Well-Being
- Call 410-455-2542 or schedule online at myRetrieverCare
- Learn more: health.umbc.edu
Let’s reduce stigma, promote healing, and remind each other:
Every story has power. Every student deserves support.
🔗 nami.org/mham