“A few months into my first year, one of my classmates passed away. We sat next to each other every day in Chinese class and quickly became friends. This was my first experience losing a peer, and I soon realized that the pace of Yale doesn’t give space for students to grieve. I checked in with my dean and was recommended to YMHC. However, the day of my appointment, I decided at the last minute to not show up. With the stresses of working multiple jobs, managing a full courseload, and family responsibilities, I placed my mental health as a low priority. Mental health resources at Yale must take into account that healing takes time and takes shape in many forms. Yale must eliminate the SIC, hire therapists of color that support BIPOC students, and make sure that students from all backgrounds are supported.”
Lauren Kim, she/her/hers, SM ’21
