YOu are not alone: A look inside the revolutionary wolverine support network
“We work to empower University of Michigan students to create an inclusive community and support each other’s identity, mental well-being, and day-to-day lives”. This is the mission statement of Wolverine Support Network, a student-led organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity and mental health.
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Founded in 2014 by Bobby Dishell and Cooper Charlton, WSN works to facilitate student-led support groups in an effort to address the stigma of mental health around campus. These groups take place on both Central and North Campus, and they meet in 1-hour sessions from 4-9 every Monday-Thursday. Additionally, Wolverine Support Network hosts biweekly “Kickback Fridays”, which focus on building community through fun activities such as bowling and yoga.
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“WSN is a space that I can be myself and know that I’m surrounded by a community that genuinely wants to build me up and make sure that I’m the best person I can be”, says Rian Ratnavale, a sophomore leader studying psychology. “Every time I come into group meetings, I feel safe and ready to brighten the lives of everyone there.”
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One of the unique aspects about WSN is that it is entirely student-run. Group meetings are led by student leaders who have been specially trained to handle difficult topics surrounding mental health. “I think it’s much more real. Often times, the other students have experienced a similar situation to the issue that has been brought up and can provide their insight as a peer,” says Olivia Hazlett, a junior. “Hearing another person speak about something you also are dealing with prompts others to speak up and feel comfortable.”
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Today, Wolverine Support Network has over 600 members and has facilitated nearly 1,500 groups since its inception. It is one of the lead organizations promoting mental health awareness across Michigan’s campus, and it even played an active role in planning/outreach for a mental health speak out event in 2017 featuring Logic the rapper!
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WSN works in conjunction with other mental health organizations to provide adequate resources to students on campus. Although the Counseling and Psychological Services at Michigan (CAPS) can be a great resource for students, it suffers from certain limitations, including the long wait to be seen for a consultation and the limited number of sessions a student can attend before they are referred out.
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“Personally, I found the waiting period and application a little desensitizing and so I have never seem them for personal need,” remarks Jordan Lazarus, WSN’s Executive Director. “However, I have worked closely with our liaison and I appreciate the work they do considering that they are drastically underfunded and understaffed”.
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While Wolverine Support Network has made incredible strides towards decreasing mental health stigma across campus, there is still lots of work to be done. But if this organization can teach us anything, then we should never give up on our goals and strive to make our community as welcoming as it can be.