The Checkup

Welcome to The Checkup, UMass Boston's Monthly Wellness Digest!

It's January — between naps, snacks, and "what day is it?" moments. Here's a little laugh to start the year:

Why don't flu germs like winter break?

Fewer people to bug...

Happy New Year, Beacons!

With the spring semester still a few weeks away, January offers something we don't often get during the academic year: time.

Whether you're fully unplugged or slowly easing back into routines, this part of winter break is an opportunity to rest, reset, and take care of yourself without the usual deadlines. There's no pressure to jump into "new year" goals — steady, supportive choices go a long way.

Upcoming Happenings

While we're still on winter break, in-person groups and events will resume at the start of the Spring 2026 semester. In the meantime, if you're looking for a gentle way to reconnect with routine, we're offering virtual Koru Mindfulness drop-in sessions throughout January.

Koru Mindfulness Virtual Drop-Ins

Throughout January | Open to all | No experience needed

These short, welcoming sessions offer simple mindfulness practices you can join from anywhere —helpful for grounding, managing stress, and easing back into the semester.

View Upcoming Events

Help Shape Our Spring Programming

As we plan programming for Spring 2026, we'd love to hear from you. Take a few minutes to share what topics, formats, and events you'd like to see next semester.

Take the Spring 2026 Survey

Awareness in Action

January highlights several important health awareness areas. Here are a few simple actions you can take this month to support your health and community:

📅 Cervical Health Awareness Month

Routine Pap tests are an important part of preventative care. If you're eligible (recommended for women ages 21-65), consider scheduling a screening or talking with a provider about what's right for you.

📅 Mental Wellness Awareness Month

Mental well-being looks different for everyone. This month, try one small, supportive habit — like prioritizing sleep, setting screen boundaries, or checking in with someone you trust. Seeking support is always okay.

📅 National Blood Donor Month

Did you know blood supplies are often lowest during the winter months? If you're able to donate, your contribution can help save lives in the community.

Beacon Wellness Spotlight

This month, we're highlighting Togetherall, a free, anonymous online peer support community available to all UMass Boston students, 24/7.

Whether you're feeling stressed, lonely, or just need a space to check in, Togetherall offers moderated discussion boards, self-guided tools, and a supportive community.

Click on the image or visit TogetherAll.com to learn more or sign up.

Did You Miss It?

December Highlights

FlossTime Dental Clinic

Our final dental clinic of the semester provided cleanings, X-rays, and restorative care right on campus. The next clinic will take place on March 3-6 -- join the waitlist to be notified when booking opens.

Journaling Workshop

In partnership with The Writing Center, students explored journaling as a tool for stress relief, emotional processing, and self-expression through guided prompts and creative writing.

De-Stress Fest

During the final week of classes, campus partners came together to offer creative and calming activities to help students recharge before finals. Thank you to everyone who participated!

Did You Know?

Pap Tests are Available at UHS

Pap tests are routine screenings for people with a cervix that play an important role in detecting cervical health concerns early. Students with Student Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance can receive Pap tests right at University Health Services. On-campus care is private, convenient, and an important part of preventative health.

Book your appointment via the My Health Beacon Portal or call UHS General Medicine at (617) 287-5660 to learn more.

Program Spotlight:

Pause for Paws 🐾

Thank you to Healey Library, U-ACCESS, and the Student Leadership & Community Engagement offices for hosting our first monthly Pause for Paws event.

Therapy dogs McGregor (left) and Shylow (right) helped students, staff, and faculty take a break, connect, and learn more about campus resources. We're excited to continue these visits throughout the semester!

Click on the image to view upcoming Pause for Paws visits.