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Orange Coast College Hosts ‘Gratitude and Growth’ Event

Students foster connections and creativity during the Gratitude and Growth event at Orange Coast College.

News Summary

On May 21, 2025, Orange Coast College organized the ‘Gratitude and Growth’ event to raise mental health awareness among students. Held in the Student Union, it featured interactive activities like arts and crafts aimed at fostering community and promoting self-care during finals week. Participants shared their experiences, highlighting the importance of open discussions on mental health. This event signifies the college’s dedication to supporting student well-being and creating an environment where mental health challenges can be openly addressed.

Costa Mesa, CA – Orange Coast College hosted the “Gratitude and Growth” event on May 21, 2025, at the Student Union to promote mental health awareness among its students in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month. Organized by the college’s Student Equity and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) club, the event attracted numerous attendees seeking to engage in creative activities while learning about available mental health resources.

The event featured a variety of hands-on activities such as arts and crafts, where students could create gratitude jars, decorate journals, and paint pet rocks. The atmosphere was designed to be supportive and relaxing, allowing participants to unwind and connect with their peers during a particularly stressful time of the semester—finals week.

Juan Manuel Gonzalez, who hosted the event, introduced various mental health resources available to students at Orange Coast College. He stressed the importance of creating an environment where mental health is openly discussed and supported within the student community.

Attending students engaged with one another and shared their experiences. Anastasia Levenets Fedortsova, a Political Science major, emphasized that events like “Gratitude and Growth” are essential for stress relief amid the pressures of full-time student life. She underscored the importance of recognizing mental health challenges in the academic environment, especially since misconceptions about student pressures often stem from older generations.

Another participant, Jefferson Gonzalez, a Psychology and Criminal Justice major, highlighted the role of male students in mental health discussions. He advocated for greater participation among men in events that focus on emotional expression, challenging traditional norms that discourage vulnerability. This conversation indicates a shifting perspective that seeks to normalize mental health support and engagement among all demographics.

The positive feedback from attendees reaffirmed the significance of such events in fostering mindfulness and self-care. These activities not only provide creative outlets but also encourage connections and dialogues around mental health challenges. Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather in a communal space, reinforcing the collective commitment to supporting one another during difficult times.

The “Gratitude and Growth” event effectively connected students with available mental health resources while promoting a culture of understanding and openness. The focus on gratitude as a central theme reflected the importance of acknowledgment in personal growth and resilience amidst academic stressors.

Events like this one are crucial for dismantling stigmas surrounding mental health and enhancing awareness in student populations. In times where academic challenges can become overwhelming, initiatives that advocate for mental well-being are vital. By fostering community and encouraging expressions of support, Orange Coast College continues to champion the importance of mental health awareness among its students.

The success of the event suggests promising opportunities for future initiatives aimed at addressing mental health and maintaining a supportive collegiate environment. As Mental Health Awareness Month encourages discussions and resources, Orange Coast College remains committed to advocating for student well-being, emphasizing gratitude and growth as essential components of the experience.