Acknowledging Impactful Events

Description:

Students are impacted in a variety of ways when faced with difficult times, including when significant events happen at MIT or in the world. They find it valuable when faculty and staff check in, acknowledge these events, and when possible, allow time for them to discuss their feelings and reactions.

Steps:

• When following big news in the world or at MIT, check in with yourself. If you are affected and have feelings, it’s likely that your students do as well.
• Assess your level of comfort with acknowledging the events and possible range of feelings with students. You do not need to assume the role of a mental health clinician.
• Visit this website for resources, including advice, tips, and agendas to help facilitate these short check-ins.

Rationale:

Students find it valuable when faculty and staff check in, acknowledge these events, and when possible, allow time for them to discuss their feelings and reactions.