Health & Wellness Monthly Newsletter
October 2021 | Office of Health and Wellness Promotion
Events & Opportunities
  • More Flu Vaccines at the Health Center
  • Have a CornWHOLE Lotta Fun with BTW!
  • BCC Therapy Groups
Featured Topics
  • Building Positive Group Bonds
  • Celebrating Halloween Safely
  • Practice Good Handwashing
  • HAWP Team Member Spotlight
Events & Opportunities
More Flu Vaccines at the Health Center
Did you miss your chance to sign up for the Flu Clinic this week, October 4-6?

Don't worry, you have another chance!

Brandeis Health Center Flu Clinic
October 7-8, 9am-12pm ET
  • For: Brandeis graduate and undergraduate students
  • Location: Health Center
  • Schedule your appointment in your Secure Patient Portal.

Students may also make an appointment with the Brandeis Health Center by calling 781-736-3677 to receive a flu shot on any day.

Preparing For Your Appointment:
On the day of your appointment:
  • Fill out and bring the consent form for vaccination with you.
  • Bring your health insurance card with you.
  • Wear a mask.
  • Wear a shirt with easy access to the upper arm.
  • Display a green or yellow Campus Passport.
A man gets his flu shot from a doctor. Text reads "This fall, it is more important than ever to get your flu vaccine."
Have a CornWHOLE Lotta Fun with BTW!
Join BTW and have a CornWHOLE Lotta Fun! Come to destress, play cornhole, grab a giveaway, talk to BTW, and learn about how movement and physical activity impacts wellness!

Friday, October 8
12-2pm
Fellows Garden
Have a CornWHOLE Lotta Fun with BTW! Graphic of a cornhole game and a group of people standing together.
BCC Therapy Groups
This fall, the Brandeis Counseling Center (BCC) is offering therapy groups that meet virtually for 45 minutes at a regular time each week. Each therapy group has a different focus, so students can sign up for a therapy group that would most interest and benefit them. Group therapy offers the chance to speak with and learn from a trained therapist as well as compassionate peers. Fall 2021 offerings include groups on:

  • Bereavement
  • Break ups
  • Surviving isolation and quarantine
  • International student support
  • Social anxiety
  • Art journaling
  • and more!
Featured Topics
Building Positive Group Bonds
Participating in clubs, organizations, and teams is a great way to find community, support, and friendship at Brandeis.

However, group bonding practices are not always positive. According to the National Hazing Study, 55% of college students in clubs, teams, and groups experience hazing. It can occur in any type of club, organization, or team.

Positive group bonding is inclusive, safe, and low-pressure. Activities reflect the group's values and create opportunities for connection, conversation, and team building.

Group bonding practices may be negative, harmful, or considered hazing if:

  • You don't know what's coming next
  • Activities are challenging or unsafe, and may be presented as "optional"
  • You feel uncomfortable
  • Your participation is impacting your sleep, well-being, or academics
  • Alcohol is involved
  • You're not supposed to tell anyone about it
Positive Group Bonding is inclusive, provides opportunities for connection, and is neither physically nor emotionally unsafe. Cartoon student says "It was low-pressure and easy to talk to the people in the group I didn't already know"
Celebrating Halloween Safely
It is the month of Halloween! Consider having a COVID-19-safe Halloween. Watch a scary movie, decorate a pumpkin, or have a small gathering with close friends.

If you choose to drink on Halloween…
  • Eat a full meal beforehand
  • Set a drink limit
  • Count your drinks
  • Do not share drinks
Practice Good Handwashing
The school year has officially started, and things on campus are almost back to normal and at full capacity. However, it is important to remain diligent. This involves making sure we are following COVID-19-safe protocols and keeping up with our personal hygiene.

October 15 is Global Handwashing Day. With COVID-19 still circulating and flu season coming up, it is a good reminder to practice effective hand hygiene.
HAWP Team Member Spotlight
Name: Leah Berkenwald, '07

Hometown: Somerville, MA

Pets: A white and black cat named Moe (@yourtherapycat)

Hobbies: Camping, quilting, comedy writing

Current Favorite Song: Mr. Blue Sky - Electric Light Orchestra

Fun Fact: Leah was one of the founding members of the Brandeis improv group Bad Grammer.

Favorite Thing About Working at HAWP: Knowing that I am giving back to my alma mater and helping fellow Brandeisians enjoy their time here to the fullest!
Leah Berkenwald
Health and Wellness Resources
Brandeis Health Center

All appointments must be scheduled by calling
781-736-3677.

After hours consultation:
781-239-1948


Monday - Friday: 
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Closed Tuesdays from 9-10 am
Brandeis Counseling Center

All appointments must be conducted virtually.

Please call during regular business hours for routine matters, and after 5 p.m. for urgent concerns.

To reach the BCC call
781-736-3730.
Office of Health and Wellness Promotion | www.brandeis.edu/hawp