UHS Monthly Student Newsletter

January 2026

View this email in your browser

UHS January 2026 Calendar 🗓️

1/1: National Eye Care Awareness Month - View SHIP Vision Benefits

1/1: Financial Wellness Month - Learn more

1/20: UC Berkeley instruction begins - See academic calendar

1/21: Let's Talk Drop-In Consultation w/ Veronica Orozco, PhD (Virtual) - Learn more

1/21: Holistic Sleep Wellness Workshop - Learn more

1/22: Drop-in Nutrition Counseling (virtual) - Learn more

1/23: Drop-in Nutrition Counseling (virtual) - Learn more

1/23: Let's Talk Drop-In Consultation w/ Samuel C. Tourek, PhD (Virtual) - Learn more

1/23: Grad Men's Support Group starts - Learn more

1/26: Grad Women's Support Group starts - Learn more

1/26: Asian and Asian American Womxn Support Group starts - Learn more

1/26: Chronic Health Conditions Support Group starts - Learn more

1/27: Let's Talk Drop-In Consultation w/ Shanta Jambotkar, LCSW (Virtual) - Learn more

1/27 - 1/29: Wellness Happens Here at RSF - Learn more

1/28: Let's Talk Drop-In Consultation w/ Cynthia Medina, PhD (Virtual) - Learn more

1/28: Managing Health-Related Fears & Worries Group starts - Learn more

1/29: Drop-in Nutrition Counseling (virtual) - Learn more

1/30: Drop-in Nutrition Counseling (virtual) - Learn more

1/30: Disordered Eating Process & Skills Group starts. Call Social Services at (510) 642-6074 to set up an intake - Learn more

2/2: Trans & Gender Diverse Support Group starts - Learn more

2/3: Pet Hugs at Memorial Glade, 12-1 pm - Learn more

2/3: Intro to the Practice of Mindfulness & Meditation - Learn more

2/4: Healing From Trauma (EMDR) Group starts - Learn more

NEW! Free Peer-to-Peer Mental Health Resource Available Through Togetherall

UC Berkeley students now have access to a new, free online mental health community on Togetherall. This safe, anonymous space, moderated by mental health professionals, allows students to share their thoughts, seek support, and access helpful resources anytime. 


To join, register with your student email on the Togetherall website.

Transitioning Back to Campus Life After Winter Break 📚

Sweet Potato Chili 🍠

Looking for a hearty meal recipe? Try this sweet potato and black bean chili. It's a perfect weeknight meal or make-ahead dish for lunches throughout the week. Don't forget to add your favorite toppings before you eat!

Savory Oatmeal 🥣

Have you ever tried savory oatmeal? It's a twist on a classic breakfast option. Mix in veggies and try topping it with an egg. This recipe transforms oats into a delicious option for a quick lunch or even dinner.

New Semester Affirmations 💪🏼

• I am ready and excited to learn something new.
• I am thankful for the opportunity to learn new things.
• Mistakes and setbacks help me learn and grow.
• I belong in every room that the universe puts me in.  
• I will focus on my priorities and let go of things that are beyond my control.
• There is no reason to compare myself to others. 
• The goal is not perfection; the goal is growth.
• I will ask for help when I need it.
• Getting my degree will not be easy, but it will be worth it.

Start the New Year With a Self-Care Plan 🧘🏽

Get support creating your new year self-care plan by:

• chatting with our body-inclusive nutritionists to develop a meal plan that fits your needs and lifestyle,
• meeting with a health coach to plan ways to make small behavioral changes, or
• contacting the UHS Career Counselors to discuss long-term career goals.

Whatever your self-care needs are, we are here to help you have a great spring semester!

Access Eye Care on Campus 👓

Did you know that with your SHIP benefits, you have access to eye care services through the UC Berkeley Eye Care Center? There are two eye clinics conveniently located on campus, one at the Tang Center and the other at the Meredith W. Morgan University Eye Center.

Students with SHIP can get an eye exam for only $10. Plus, the UC Berkeley Eye Care Center accepts VSP insurance — so even if you’re covered under your parents’ plan, you can still get an eye exam. With over 1,000 frames to choose from, you can select your perfect new glasses or contact lenses right on campus.

Financial Wellness: More Than Just Numbers 💰

Our financial choices are connected to our upbringing, personalities, and perspectives on money. Here are some tips from Vox for building a healthier relationship with money.

• Practice financial self-compassion: Recognize that everyone makes financial mistakes. If you’re late paying a bill, tell yourself, “While not ideal, it’s not the end of the world.” Then set bills on autopay and create a reminder to review bills on your calendar.
• Don’t let shame stop you from seeking help: Feeling ashamed about finances can make it hard to take action. Try using free resources like podcasts, library books, or reach out to the campus Center for Financial Wellness for support.
• Celebrate your money wins: Pause and give yourself credit for progress. Research shows that experiencing small wins encourages continued positive behavior.

Learn more about financial wellness resources on our website.

January is Stalking Awareness Month

January 2026 marks the 22nd annual National Stalking Awareness Month (NSAM).

Resources for stalking survivors:

• Call 911 if you're in immediate danger.
• The PATH to Care Center provides confidential support for sexual violence victims. Call 510-642-1988.
• VictimConnect Resource Center offers a confidential referral helpline. Call or text 855-484-2846 or chat online.
• Find a full list of resources in the Notice of Rights and Options.

Learn more on the Berkeley SVSH website.

Have New Year's Resolutions? 🎯

These podcasts help reframe and reimagine goals for the new year: 1) Dump Your Inner Drill Sergeant and 2) A Daily Workout to Tackle Nagging Self-Criticism.

Trying Dry January? 🧃

Check out this Psychology Today article on rethinking Dry January. It encourages sober curiosity as a less all-or-nothing approach to having a healthier relationship with alcohol.