The Power of Empathy

In the spring of 2020, I found myself in the front of an auditorium with over a hundred students, teaching an anatomy course I had never taught. I stood a broken soul enduring the trauma of the loss of a parent over the holiday while absorbing the ongoing eating disorder racking my oldest child’s body. I spoke about hardship, mental health, and reducing the stigma that surrounds mental health. I stood there strong enough to admit my brokenness. This immediately opened the door for an impersonal lecture to be different, and I gained the trust of my class. I am grateful to have gained that trust, as the spring 2020 semester would be interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic in ways that were unpredictable and overwhelming.

During shelter-in-place, I understood the ramifications of what a change in routine, a change in employment, or an uncertain future can do to those who suffer from mental illness. I experienced a worsening of my symptoms. Regardless, I was also able to provide support to many of my students during this time, whether suffering from loss of job, home, or mental stability; I was a listening ear. One student came forward about three weeks after the beginning of spring break.  She was depressed and suicidal. Would she have admitted her troubles, if I had not admitted my own? The student and I talked through a plan to get her counseling, get her work in order, and maintain the stellar grade she had earned prior to the COVID-19 interruptions. With a bit of support and grace on deadlines, she persevered and received an A in a very difficult course.

Being a Role Model

Students have commented that my frank candidness about mental health empowered them to seek counseling or to discover the courage to find the best version of themselves. I view my struggle as worthwhile particularly if it lessens the burden of my students. I am glad they find comfort with my honesty and openness. And with record numbers of students seeking counseling at IU South Bend, I will continue to discuss my struggle in efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and to bring hope to those who, perhaps, need it most. By sharing my truth, I hope to be a positive role model to my students. I want to show them that continued persistence and creating a plan for success amid challenges really pays off. For example, I use running, biking, and daily walks to quiet my brain. My diet is also a supportive link with my health, along with my spirituality. I really try to balance holistic wellness.

My students and their learning environment are positively impacted by the simple act of discussing a topic most find uncomfortable or embarrassing. It not only influences their overall well-being, but also their willingness to grow academically. Because I have gained their trust, I can request great effort in my courses, mostly without complaint, especially if I explain the importance of difficult material. Students often deem my courses as difficult in student evaluations, but also regularly rate them in a positive light.

When we show up authentically for our students, our coworkers, and ourselves — and work to build connections — we are growing the culture of wellness at IU. The impact is immeasurable. I want to leave you with the words of a former student, who sent me the following email in December 2019:

I wanted to tell you how much I appreciated your emphasis on mental health since the very first day of class. I not only felt comfortable in your class, but looked forward to it as I found it to be a safe space. I was telling one of my classmates that just sitting in class feels like a warm hug (Frozen reference). Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for being open, honest, and approachable, and offering your office hours for whatever needs may arise. Even though I didn't need anything in particular, just knowing that it was an option was enough for me.