Mental Well-Being

Relaxation Techniques Increase Well-Being

Relaxation is more than a state of mind; it physically changes the way your body functions. When your body is relaxed, breathing slows, blood pressure and oxygen consumption decrease, and some people report an increased sense of well-being. This is called the “relaxation response.”

Being able to produce the relaxation response using relaxation techniques may counteract the effects of long-term stress, which may contribute to or worsen a range of health problems including depression, digestive disorders, headaches, high blood pressure, and insomnia.

Indiana University offers Mindful Way to Stress Reduction on many campuses. This program focuses on:

  • Recognizing and addressing stressful situations effectively “on the spot.”
  • Managing chronic stress.
  • Improving focus and communication.
  • Enhancing mind-body wellness.

You can also take this online Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Course for free.

Try it!

Take a moment for mindfulness —

Visit your campus programs page to see what live, online meditations are being offered. Or check out a few recorded meditations below that can help you ease into mindfulness.

Before you start, make sure you are comfortable and in a place where you won’t be interrupted. These mindfulness moments may be most effective when practiced regularly and combined with good nutrition, regular exercise, and a strong social support system.

Learn more about mindfulness here.

Understanding and Treatment of Mental Illnesses

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. The following links can help you learn more.

SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program

SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP), administered by CuraLinc Healthcare, is a confidential resource that provides 24/7 access to professional counseling and referrals. SupportLinc’s licensed counselors can provide short-term assistance with issues such as:

  • grief and loss
  • substance abuse
  • marriage and relationship problems
  • depression
  • work-related pressures
  • stress and anxiety

Eligibility: Services are provided at no cost to all employees, IU Residents, Graduate Appointees, Fellowship Recipients, and their household members. 

Services include:

  • Unlimited 24/7/365 telephonic counseling with a professionally licensed counselor
  • Up to six face-to-face counseling sessions per issue, per year at no cost (sessions are held in-person or over secure video)
  • Access to comprehensive content and tools through SupportLinc’s website and eConnect® mobile app (Case sensitive username: iu)

Learn more about EAP »