Schoolwork, advocacy place strain on student activists

[Valin]

Brown Daily Herald:

Students struggle with mental health, academic pressures as they act on social justice responsibilities

Mei Novak

Thursday, February 18, 2016

 

 

Two weeks ago, the University released the final version of its diversity and inclusion action plan, which could not have been compiled without the exhaustive efforts of students throughout last semester.

 

“There are people breaking down, dropping out of classes and failing classes because of the activism work they are taking on,” said David, an undergraduate whose name has been changed to preserve anonymity. Throughout the year, he has worked to confront issues of racism and diversity on campus.

 

His role as a student activist has taken a toll on his mental, physical and emotional health. “My grades dropped dramatically. My health completely changed. I lost weight. I’m on antidepressants and anti-anxiety pills right now. (Counseling and Psychological Services) counselors called me. I had deans calling me to make sure I was okay,” he said.

 

(Snip)

 

 

H/T Power Line

 

 

Being a college SJW Is Hard

 

 

Tell me about it brother.