TO REPORT A NEWS ITEM OR SUBMIT A PRESS RELEASE, please email editorinchief@utdailybeacon.com or call (865) 974-2348
TO PLACE AN AD, please email admanager@utk.edu.
LETTERS POLICY: Letters to the Editor must be exclusive to The Daily Beacon and cannot have been submitted to or published by other media. Letters should not exceed 400 words and can be edited or shortened for space. Letters can also be edited for grammar and typographical errors, and Letters that contain excessive grammatical errors can be rejected for this reason. Anonymous Letters will not be published. Authors should include their full name, mailing address, city of residence, phone number and e-mail address for verification purposes. Letters submitted without this information will not be published. The preferred method to submit a Letter to the Editor is to email the Editor-in-Chief.
CORRECTIONS POLICY:It is the Daily Beacon’s policy to quickly correct any factual errors and clarify any potentially misleading information. Errors brought to our attention by readers or staff members will be corrected and printed on page two of our publication. To report an error please send as much information as possible about where and when the error occurred to managingeditor@ utdailybeacon.com, or call our newsroom at (865) 974-5206.
The Daily Beacon is published by students at The University of Tennessee on Wednesday during the fall and spring semesters. The offices are located at 1345 Circle Park Drive, 11 Communications Building, Knoxville, TN 37996-0314. The newspaper is free on campus and is available via mail subscription for $200/year or $100/semester. It is also available online at: www.utdailybeacon.com
Letter from the Editor: Living with OCD: Learning how to accept help
SHELBY WRIGHT Editor In Chief
In December I was officially diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder and depression and generalized anxiety.
However, I have been dealing with these mental health issues for the better half of 10 years.
I first noticed my OCD when I was about 11 years old. The jump from elementary to middle school was very hard for me. I had no self confidence, I was extremely shy, and I felt like an ugly duckling — something that my friends and classmates would constantly remind me of.
Given this, I began retreating inward and in a pitiful attempt to control my little world, my mind became obsessed with specific numbers and tasks — to the point that I was able to convince myself that if I didn’t flip the light switch and touch every corner of my room exactly 12 times, something terrible would happen, even though I never knew precisely what I thought would happen.
I refused to go to therapy and I allowed my compulsion number to climb all the way to 24 before a classmate and teacher caught me repeating a silly action in class one day.
One day, at age 13, I couldn’t stop opening and closing my textbook before moving on to each question, and I was starting to panic because I kept forgetting which number in my routine I was on, so I had to start over.
It was humiliating. So the next day I decided I wasn’t going to have OCD anymore, and I basically bullied myslef into hiding all my ticks, and honestly, I was quite successful.
After a few months, even I could barely notice I had OCD. I had suppressed it only to show itself during certain tasks and contained most of my ticks in thoughts. It was manageable and I never went to therapy.
And this worked for a little while, until last year.
The surmounting stress of college and relationship problems, old habits began resurfacing and one day I found myself feeling like I was 13 again.
It felt like my OCD had just been dormant, growing into a bigger monster and were now surfacing in “attacks”
of anxiety and worry, which made any task almost impossible to do without being interrupted by repetitive ticks and counting.
However, 10 minutes later, I would be fine. It was the most confusing thing I had ever experienced.
Finally, I bit the bullet and called a therapist. I felt so ashamed that I was no longer strong enough to handle this on my own. I could lead organizations, solve others’ problems, and guide others, but I had no control over myself. What was I to do? How would others react?
It took me a few months to finally relaize that it was ok not to be perfect, and every day I still have to wake up and remind myself of that.
Mental health used to be something I could never easily talk about. I knew it existed, but I didn’t think it was something that affected me — even though looking back, it clearly was.
I didn’t grow up in an environment that necessarily made it easy to discuss my feelings, but now that I’m an adult, I’ve realized that my struggles aren’t quite as unique as I once thought them to be.
In college, I’ve learned that it’s more important than ever to be open about
your mental health. Take it from me — I know how silly it feels to explain to professors, parents and friends why you haven’t been yourself and why your grades aren’t as good as they should be.
I could’ve done better even this past semester about being more transparent about what was going on in my life behind the scenes. If I could go back and make changes, I would.
But I can’t and neither can you, and that’s ok. That’s life, but we must keep going because brighter days are ahead.
I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. In just six months of therapy I have already seen so much improvement within myself and my battle with OCD, anxiety and depression.
As finals and graduation looms ever closer, it can be easy to feel smothered and overwhelmed, but your mental health must come first. Take some time — even if it’s just a few minutes — to go outside, breathe and feel the warmth of the sun on your face.
You are alive. We are alive. We are young. Speak up. Speak out. You have nothing to fear.
College is not the end, it’s just the beginning of the rest of our lives and we will get through this — together.
Only 2.3% of the U.S. population has OCD, and it only affects 1 in 40 adults and 1 in 100 children. Research on the disorder is widely lacking, and it can be hard to treat. Shelby Wright / The Daily Beacon
‘Once they are gone, they are gone’: national park federal firings update
SAMANTHA WHITLEY News Editor
After the Feb. 14 mass firings, several employees lost their jobs at the Great Smoky and Cumberland Gap mountains. However, the Merit Systems Protection Board and two federal judges recognized the outrage. They determined the firings illegal and ordered the agencies to reinstate those fired, with pay and benefits that were initially lost.
According to Bill Wade, executive director of the Association of National Park Rangers, employees may feel uneasy about returning to work given the uncertain circumstances.
“Some may not be able to afford to travel back to their jobs and some might decide they don’t want to work any longer for the federal government, given the way they were treated,” Wade said.
Firing an employee during their probationary year has to be for a specific cause, typically related to poor performance or conduct. Since these employees were illegally fired, the term could have multiple meanings, according to Wade.
“Because all those fired employees received the same email, the judgments were that it was a “reduction in force” and not individually based on performance. Many of those fired had performance ratings that were “fully successful” or better.”
Haley Gipson, a senior studying wildlife
Unlawful Drug Paraphernalia, Maintaining a Dwelling Where Drugs Used Possessed Sold, Unlawful Use of Inhalants - Inhaling Selling Giving Posessing, Simple Possession
Driving Under The Influence, Violation Of Implied Consent Law, Failure To Maintain Lane, Headlights On Motor Vehicles - Operation During Inclement Weather
and fisheries science, explained her reaction after witnessing the firings.
“I think that it’s only right for them to be reinstated,” Gipson said. “They were genuine people who worked hard for their jobs only for them to be ripped out of their hands. It takes a lot of work and experience to get a permanent position with a federal agency and these people didn’t deserve to be fired without cause.”
Gipson worked at Montgomery Bell State Park for four summers, holding positions such as campground attendant and seasonal interpretive ranger. Although her season was over before the layoffs and funding issues started, Gibson was impacted considering she was looking for a different job.
“I have already been turned away from three jobs I have applied for because they lost their funding for the position,” Gipson said. “One was with USGS, one as a research technician and one at a nonprofit. A lot of people don’t realize that it’s much more than just national park employees being fired. It’s also young professionals trying to enter a field that’s already incredibly competitive and losing opportunities due to a lack of funding because of the federal grant freeze.”
Gipson clarified that this is not just a national park issue — all areas of conservation fields are affected because federal grants fund research and internships.
One aspect impacted by the National Park firings is credit card limits.
“Several weeks ago, with almost no warning, a limit was placed on the use of government credit card purchases, capping the charge limit at $1 — that’s correct — $1,” Rick Mossman, president of the Association of National Park Rangers said.
The charge limit is an issue, as national park Service employees use their authorized credit cards to make multiple purchases, including items such as toilet paper and maintenance supplies.
The purchasing limitations impact local businesses surrounding the parks, according to Wade, and some parks cannot afford necessities like utility bills or gasoline for ranger patrol vehicles.
According to a statement from ANPR, “The Department of the Interior has been ordered to submit a restructuring plan by today and to expect to reduce payroll by 30% and to anticipate additional massive layoffs. And yet another ‘restructuring plan’ will be due from the NPS in April.”
Wade told the Beacon that he is concerned this is all part of a planned ‘starvation’ of the national parks, as the National Park Service is unable to fulfill its mission of providing for visitor enjoyment and protecting its resources.
Weekly Campus Crime Log
Wade explained that if it were left to the NPS to make the determinations about probationary employees, they would do it according to law and policy — that’s what happened back in February.
“As a concerned American you must act now to stop the potential loss of many of your most precious and irreplaceable parks. … Once they are gone, they are gone,” Mossman said.
The national parks are at risk of losing essential resources. Sunday, April 20, 2025. Samantha Whitley / The Daily Beacon
“This could be used to justify privatization or development in parks that is inconsistent with their purposes,” Wade said.
Searching for sunshine: Increasing time outside while managing a college schedule
ANDI JONES Contributor
As the temperatures finally start rising, HSS lawn fills with students desperate to get a bit of sunlight in between classes. Aside from maintaining the spring break tan, going outside has been proven to have a positive impact on both your mind and body.
For Ty Young, a junior studying civil engineering, being the president of the Running Club at the University of Tennessee has helped him see the benefits of being active and outdoors.
“It helps me stay in the mental capacity for school,” Young said. “If I work all day, and then I get an hour and a half of just running with friends outside, it helps me get back. That’s like my break, and then I come back from dinner, and I’m ready to keep going.”
While running in general is a great workout, Young said that running outside offers more benefits to mindset and positivity.
“I won’t get the same effect on a treadmill,” Young said.
Sun exposure has been proven to increase vitamin D levels which is a key component in everyday health. However, Vitamin D deficiency is a growing concern. A 2014 study from The East Tennessee State University found that nearly 70% of college students ages 18-29 had suboptimal levels of Vitamin D during the winter.
UT lecturer and registered dietician Lee Murphy agrees that many Americans have low-normal or low Vitamin D levels which impacts both physical and mental health.
“If vit D levels are low, research has shown links to depression, anxiety and even worsening symptoms of other conditions like ADD/ADHD and other mood disorders,” Murphy said in an email. “Vitamin D functions to regulate calcium in the body— including a relation to bone and muscular health, among other functions. It’s also involved in immunity and other system functions.”
Sun exposure is one of the primary sources of vitamin D. A 2021 study from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science says that being in the sun is “unarguably the most optimal way to obtain vitamin D.” In addition to other health benefits, being in the sun can increase levels of vitamin D with much less risk of vitamin D toxicity because it is naturally received and processed in the body.
Being in the sun for 30 minutes without sunscreen can be enough to meet an adequate amount of vitamin D, according to
Sun exposure has been proven to increase vitamin D levels which is a key component in everyday health. However, Vitamin D deficiency is a growing concern. Contributor Andi Jones talks about how students can better get some sun this spring. Samantha Whitley / The Daily
the 2021 study. However, be careful not to spend too much time outside without SPF protection to avoid risk of skin damage and cancer.
It can be challenging to find engaging ways to spend time outdoors, especially with a full course load, work and oncampus activities. There are many student organizations that may be able to help by providing engaging activities outdoors and a community.
The Running Club meets for four days a week, Monday through Thursday at 5:30 outside of TRECS.
“We accept paces at every level, and everybody starts somewhere… It’s a great community, and they’re all amazing. Everybody is super friendly,” Young said. If you’re looking for an outside adventure but running isn’t your niche, there’s also University of Tennessee Outdoor Pursuits. UTOP caters to a variety of skill levels with opportunities such as paddleboarding on the Tennessee River, hiking and climbing gear rentals, and guided trips. From afternoon “microadventures” to whitewater kayaking weekends, program coordinator Josh Elder is confident there is a UTOP experience for nearly everyone.
“The purpose of this program is to provide an opportunity for any UT student
to experience what makes East Tennessee so awesome,” Elder said.
Elder, a past UT graduate student, enjoys activities such as whitewater kayaking and climbing as ways to stay focused on what is currently happening.
“It gives you the ability to put all those other things that might be causing some stress in your life to the side and be present in exactly where you are at that moment,” Elder said.
It can be easy to worry about what’s ahead with final projects and exams looming in the near future. Even if you cannot dedicate time solely to an outdoor activity, you can combine your time in the sun with your study schedule, and there are numerous spots on campus to sunbathe and study when HSS lawn is overcrowded.
The lawn outside Ayres Hall offers a peaceful outdoor space
with a landscape of classic UT architecture that’s worth the trek up the stairs. With students traveling to and from classes, the lawn inspires an academic feel, perfect for an exam review session on your own or with friends.
Behind the College of Communications and Information building is Patricia D. Williams Terrace, accessible from the third floor of CCI. This hidden gem provides a stunning view of Neyland and the Tennessee River. When looking for a study break, check out the outdoor pool at TRECS. The pool is reminiscent of summer days, offering a temporary reprieve from the Canvas notifications. If you’re searching for sunshine at UT, there are a variety of spaces and campus organizations to explore to make getting outdoors a part of your routine, boosting your vitamin D levels in the process.
5 East Tennessee hiking spots students can explore in one day
East Tennessee is packed with hiking trails, waterfalls and stunning mountains all within a few hours of UT’s campus. Whether you are looking for a hidden swimming hole, towering waterfalls or scenic views, there is something for everyone.
Great Stone Door
The Great Stone Door can be found in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area, around two and a half hours from campus. This name comes from the rock formations and cliffs that line the trail, creating a door to the overlook. The door is 10 feet wide and is a crack in a 100-foot-tall sandstone bluff.
Multiple different trails surround the Great Stone Door with varying degrees of difficulty. The Stone Door trail is beginner-friendly and less than a mile long. While the Big Creek Rim trail is more difficult, it leads from the Great Stone Door to the Alum Gap Campground for a total of 8.2 miles out and back.
Foster Falls
Located in Sequatchie, Tennessee, just over two hours from campus, is Foster Falls. This 60-foot waterfall is perfect for a day of swimming and relaxation. The hike to get to the top of the falls is short and easy, but the hike to get to the bottom is steep, so visitors should proceed with caution.
The gorge is surrounded by beautiful mountain laurels, azaleas and hemlocks as well as towering sandstone.
Middle Creek Falls
Nestled at the base of Signal Mountain — just under two hours from campus — is an East Tennessee hidden treasure. This hike is under two miles and follows Middle Creek to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for picnics.
Swimming is also an option here but the
currents can be dangerous at times and this area of the creek is not very large. The trail is considered intermediate because getting to the waterfall requires climbing a few boulders, but the view is worth it.
Here you will find minimal crowds because this is not a designated trail. However, the entrance is only marked by graffiti and a sticker on a guardrail. Additionally parking is only available on the side of Suck Creek Road, making this trail less accessible.
Rainbow Lake Trail
Rainbow Lake is a part of Middle Creek, but is more suitable for swimming. A dam, built in 1916, sits above the lake with a huge waterfall cascading over the edge. This is a popular spot for locals to go cliff jumping. Further downstream from the dam and main lake is a more secluded pool and a 100-footlong suspension bridge over the creek.
When hiking towards the lake, there are two routes. One goes straight to the dam while the other is a two-and-a-half-mile loop around the lake, which can be challenging due to steep inclines and rocky terrain.
Look Rock Tower Trail
The Look Rock Tower is an overlook that can be found only 45 minutes from Knoxville along the Foothills Parkway. Standing at 2,652 feet high, the views of the Great Smoky Mountains are unmatched. The hike to the tower and back is less than a mile and is paved, making it very accessible. The crowds here are normally at a minimum, and the tower is open to the public all year round.
These five gems of East Tennessee offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of finals season. No matter what you are looking for, there is a never-ending list of places to explore and things to see.
Foster Falls, a 60-foot waterfall in Sequatchie, Tennessee, is perfect for a day of swimming and relaxation. Courtesy of Phil Thach Photography
Rainbow Lake Dam at Signal Mountain, Tennessee is a popular spot for locals to go cliff jumping. Courtesy of Phil Thach Photography
KACIE BURNS Staff Writer
Middle Creek Falls is located two hours for campus and is the perfect spot for hiking and picnics. Courtesy of Phil Thach Photography
Students launch ‘Green Graduation,’ honor students making sustainable impacts on UT’s campus
SARAH PORTANKA Engagement Editor
This May, each graduating senior will walk across the stage with a degree in hand, but some will also wear a green cord around their neck. The green cord, known as Green Graduation, symbolizes an impact that extends beyond their undergraduate program by recognizing and rewarding graduating students for their sustainable contributions to the University of Tennessee.
The initiative was created and implemented this academic year by Athena Jewell and Audrey Nash, two interns in the Sustainability Internship Program. The duo embarked on their internship in October without a project in mind. They became inspired by sustainability initiatives at other universities — particularly The University of Florida’s Green Gator Graduation Cord Challenge.
“We just loved how simple it was, but it’s also very visible and something that will get more students engaged with sustainability on campus and bring sustainability on campus to another visible audience,” Nash said.
How does it work?
Green Graduation operates on a point system to incentivize participation within the Office of Sustainability. Students who earn at least 10 points will receive a green cord to wear at graduation, while students who achieve at least 20 points will receive an additional medallion made from recycled materials. The medallion is composed of wood and features a chain made from recycled bicycle chains. These serve as a tangible reminder of the environmental impact students have made on their campus.
The point system operates on three levels — one, three and five-point opportunities. Common one-point opportunities include volunteering within the sustainability department or being an active member of a sustainabilityrelated club or organization on campus. These opportunities are a great fit for students who are new to sustainability involvement.
“There’s very little barrier to entry to volunteer, as long as it relates to sustainability,” said Morgan Furman, the outreach and engagement coordinator within the Office of Sustainability.
“There’s very few items that we won’t count. There’s multiple clubs that will range from a variety of different environmental interests and majors.”
Three and five-point opportunities require more long-term time and effort, such as completing a sustainability course, serving as an officer in a sustainability organization and completing a sustainability-related research project or internship.
“Whether or not that’s being a part of a university club, volunteering, doing an internship related to sustainability or even smaller things like encouraging your office to recycle when maybe they didn’t do that before. These are ways to honor people that have made these little changes and these big changes on campus, and we want them to know that we can see them,” Furman said.
Green Fee
It was important to Jewell and Nash that students don’t have to pay outof-pocket for the cords and medallions to be recognized for their efforts. The project is funded by the Green Fee — a minimal sustainability cost included in student tuition every semester. Instate students pay $10 while outof-state students pay $35. These funds are not only used toward Green Graduation, but also toward other sustainability projects on campus.
As the end of the semester draws near, those in Greek life, as well as clubs and organizations with a service hour requirement, scramble to find last-minute volunteer opportunities. The Office of Sustainability encourages students to give sustainability a try. It is an opportunity to leave a tangible legacy on UT’s campus while fulfilling a requirement and potentially even earning a cord.
Since Green Graduation is a pilot program, the Office of Sustainability welcomes feedback. The application form has been modified to include a text box where students can submit experiences that aren’t
listed for consideration.
“We’re hoping to
have really long longevity,” Furman said. “Hopefully it will build up more and it will incentivize people to care a little bit more about environmental practices.”
While the deadline to submit hours has already passed, students not graduating this spring are eligible to count hours throughout their undergraduate program toward graduation.
“Sustainability
is such a growing and emerging field. Even if you think that it won’t be applicable in whatever career you want to do or whatever you want to do with your life.
explicitly
Athena Jewell and Audrey Nash introduce the Green Graduation Initiative to recognize students for their sustainability contributions made during their undergraduate time at UT. Sarah Portanka / The Daily Beacon
Audrey Nash Sustainability Internship Program
New Green Roof at ANR Building brings new sustainable ideas, concerns to UT’s skyline
NICHOLAS WRIGHT Staff Writer
Overlooking the urban metropolis of Knoxville, an explosion of green is hidden among a sea of gray.
The new “Green Roof” on top of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Building is a lush addition to the campus that fosters sustainability while bringing a break to an otherwise concrete skyline.
“The green roof is an integration of ecology and the social space where humans, wildlife and nature can coexist,” Mike Ross, an assistant professor in the Department of Plant Sciences and key player in the project, said.
The primary purpose of the roof, according to Ross, was to meet state requirements for managing stormwater. While a simpler project could have met those demands, the green roof provided the opportunity to take things a step further.
“There’s no question it’s sequestering stormwater. It’s doing a good job in that regard,” Ross said. “But by going the extra step and putting a glade ecosystem on top of this roof we’ve not only addressed stormwater, but we’ve also got all these other ecosystem services that come into play in a more rich and robust way.”
While the roof is not technically finished as a final walkthrough remains, it is open to the public and already features many local plant species.
Additionally, the idea of a finished green roof is quite nebulous, given the nature of the project.
“It’s never done. It’s never finished. The ‘a-ha’ moment you get right now is one thing, but in five years from now it will be totally different,” Ross said. “That’s the allure of designing with living material — it changes.”
Benvy Kelly, a senior studying ecology and evolutionary biology, discussed her feelings about the project.
“I think it’s great that the school is trying to implement more green projects into their architecture. It’s a great movement and the plants they have there — purple echinacea and columbine, to name a few I remember — are great natives,” Kelly said.
The green roof is also becoming an important social spot on campus. Campus tours visit the rooftop garden,
The new Green Roof on top of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Building offers an ecological and the social space where humans and nature can coexist.
Nicholas Wright / The Daily Beacon
and Ross noted there has been a steady stream of visitors since before they had planted anything.
The roof is also being used to study spontaneous vegetation and similar events through the Green Roof Experimental Lab, of which Ross is a co-director.
While the Green Roof represents a step in the right direction for the university, some concerns surround the project.
“I’m happy to see the school’s decision to embrace more green architecture on campus, but we really need to consider the surrounding environment of UT,” Kelly said. “Maybe we should consider bigger steps, like a native wetland to help with natural water filtration.”
As more native green space is lost to development, UT will need to find a way to balance growth with sustainability.
While there is a desire for new green roofs, several strategies have proven successful and will continue to be supported by the campus community.
“More green roofs would be great, but I’m after sustainability in any capacity,” Ross said. “It’s not the specific intervention, it’s all the interventions.”
Students interested in exploring a highly specialized and beautiful local ecosystem can visit the green roof on the third floor of the ANR building on the Agriculture campus.
“The landscape which the roof is based on is one that is highly sensitive to development and exploitation. It’s very possible we will see less and less of them, or even have access to them,” Ross said. “I would encourage anyone to come and see that.”
The woman in wellness: Jessi Gold holds birds eye view as chief wellness officer
CADEN DYER Managing Editor
Quick to laugh and even quicker to smile, Chief Wellness Officer Jessica Gold put me at ease right away. Though we were only meeting virtually, the uneasy feeling when you’re about to meet someone new in a professional setting was already settling into my stomach. Jessi, as she prefers to be called, calmed my butterflies and invited me into her life in the sweetest way possible.
Over the next two weeks, I would listen back to numerous interviews with Jessi, her colleagues, students on her wellness council and many others. My intention was to unpack this woman, uncover her passions and introduce her to the University of Tennessee in fuller form. Little did I know that in only two hours of conversation, I’d feel so comfortable around her that I’d be asking for her advice on my personal life.
All I knew about Jessi was from a light feature article written by Macy Roberts for the Beacon in April of 2024. Jessi had just stepped into her position as inaugural chief wellness officer. She had a broad scope of the entire UT system — meaning all five Tennessee campuses — and she had said she was excited to begin assessing the UT campuses and their approaches to wellness.
I wanted to know more about this hefty title of “hief Wellness Officer” and what exactly that meant for Jessi in her daily life. What I found is simple: for UT students, our wellness is in kind, warm and extremely capable hands.
Connection, connection, connection Jessi is stationed in an office in Memphis, Tennessee, but you won’t find her there very often. Meetings, flights to other states, seeing patients, attending events (often speaking at them) and seeing her own therapist keeps her very busy. Her calendar is managed by an administrative coordinator (Simone, you’re awesome) and I considered it a privilege to get two hours of her time. It led me to wonder, though, how does one prioritize so many relationships with so many people across the UT system of five campuses, when you hardly see anyone in person?
Jessi told me that as a kid, she moved around a lot, and that was before you could just text or email people to keep up with them. As distance threatened to strain her relationships, she was determined to stay connected despite the distance. Since she’s been passionate about that from such a young age, she finds it less challenging to do the same
in her career — maintaining personal relationships with people she doesn’t see in person is just a part of who she is.
“I just think it maybe is something I learned as a skill over time and that as technology has evolved, it’s actually just become easier for me,” Jessi said.
I didn’t speak with a single person who didn’t talk about Jessi as though she was their best friend. By her own admittance, she is a “friend collector,” and the reports were glowing.
“To me, she’s always a person first, she’s always Jessi first. … That humanity is always there.”
That’s Noah Hamlett speaking, senior at UT Knoxville studying psychology. He’s on an undergraduate student advisory council that Jessi works with, composed of students from all five UT campuses. They give Jessi a firsthand glimpse into the lives of students at UT and where she can grow wellness.
For Hamlett, Jessi is a true mentor in his life. With Jessi’s schedule being so busy, they often interact online only. Hamlett says that doesn’t keep Jessi from connecting with him on a personal level — they share a passion for making a difference in other’s lives
and improving the way things are for students and healthcare professionals alike. Working with Jessi has been the most impactful part of his time on the council, Hamlett said.
“It’s made me kind of believe in myself more.”
Hamlett spoke of Jessi as a springboard he can bounce ideas off of, a feeling echoed by Lindsay DeVore, the graduate research assistant for UT system marketing. They both mentioned how Jessi supports and encourages their dreams for UT wellness.
As DeVore’s boss, Jessi provides the lens through which DeVore views her job of student communications, which includes running the Instagram page for UT wellness (@ut_wellness).
“We’ve only met a few times in person (because) my job is almost completely remote, and she’s just always been there and made sure that I had what I needed,” DeVore said. “One thing I really love and value is the open communication. I feel like I can have a random idea and be like, ‘What do you think about this?’ and she’ll be like, ‘Oh, well, I thought about this,’ and we’ll kind of riff ideas off of each other, which I love.”
Students are not the only ones to fall under the broad scope of the chief wellness officer. Jessi also focuses on an essential part of the UT population that isn’t students — the faculty and staff who are taking care of them.
Megan McKnight is the director of the Center for Well-Being at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. She works closely with Jessi on several topics, and pointed out that Jessi’s heart for the caregivers and staff who lead initiatives for students around campus is having a significant impact.
“That can be, you know, challenging at times, right? She tries to figure out how she can support the folks doing this work,” McKnight said. “… If they’re feeling supported … they’re ultimately gonna show up better for students.”
As much as she feels comfortable keeping contact with people from a distance and with technology, Jessi still places importance on seeing people face-to-face. As part of her first year as chief wellness officer, she visited every campus in person.
University of Tennessee System Chief Wellness Officer Jessica Gold seaking at an event for Women’s History Month. Courtesy of Caleb Jia
“I will try to keep doing that because I think face time matters.”
The past year
Jessi has spent the past year working to understand health and wellness on each individual campus so that she can lead initiatives that help where it’s needed the most. Keeping track of five campuses that are all uniquely different sounded very overwhelming to me, and I told Jessi so. She just laughed.
“No, I love it, to be honest. I mean, the scope to anyone would be overwhelming, (and) I had mentors be like, ‘Are you serious on that?’ But my brain works at a system level,” Jessi said. “In terms of things I’m good at, I like building networks (and) connections, and that’s always been a skillset. And so for me, that is also fun, like sort of how do we build big collaborative groups on these issues and how do we talk about this in a broader way that’s effective and how do we support each other?”
In February, UT Knoxville provided a free Narcan training event. The result of a system-wide initiative, this narcan training is just one of many programs Jessi has begun to pilot, based on connecting campuses and understanding student needs. Every campus was different when it came to Narcan access and Narcan training. Some had been involved with the topic for years, others were just beginning to see it as a need.
“If you approach things like they are the expert and your job is to listen and figure out how you can add value, I think people are much more likely to listen or want to help,” Jessi said. “So I didn’t tell the campuses that they should think about Narcan or focus on Narcan. I asked some questions and we got there together.”
A born problem-solver with a knack for building connections, Jessi places emphasis on listening, understanding and then doing. A good working relationship, in her eyes, is one where both sides are unafraid of asking questions and learning from the other.
In the summer of 2024, Jessi pulled together the UT System’s Substance Use Prevention and Awareness Work Group, comprised of representatives from each campus. In March, they hosted a oneday, system-wide training session at the UT Chattanooga campus. According to McKnight, co-chair of the work group, events like these provide essential momentum as her team tries to increase awareness and support Narcan access at a system level.
Not just the absence of illness
What, exactly, is wellness? The question was something I asked nearly every interviewee, and one I came to realize has many different answers.
Deeply personal to each soul, wellness looks completely different in you than it does in the person passing by you on the street.
The meaning of “wellness,” Jessi says, is actually crucial. It’s not something you can throw away as “interchangeable with well-being,” or unimportant because it’s simply a term. Instead, Jessi uses the SAMHSA definition, which is a holistic approach to eight different “dimensions” of wellness: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual.
“I think it’s really important to look holistically at a person and say, how do all these different factors of their life intersect to make them well?” Jessi said. “Wellness doesn’t have to just be the opposite of illness.”
Eight different dimensions of wellness can sometimes seem overwhelming. Jessi pointed out that by siloing each into different offices — such as the Office
for Financial Wellness or the Student Success Center, with their focus on occupational wellness — we can break the dimensions down into manageable portions.
Others might choose a more organic definition.
“For me,” Hamlett said, “Wellness is being able to be aware of when I need to ask for help or when I need to take a second and take care of myself.”
Hamlett said he thinks college students can believe that it’s normal to be stressed, anxious or depressed all the time, “And something’s gotta change about that, you know?”
For Devore, filling her cup is often done through fitness, movement and healthy foods, but for others, it can take on a different angle, such as drawing or another form of creative expression. “Personally to me, wellness means prioritizing yourself first. I really believe you can’t pour from an empty cup,” DeVore said.
Wrapping it up
I could feel the interview drawing to a close, and it saddened me. I found myself asking sillier questions in an
attempt to draw out both my time and Jessi’s, knowing that our busy schedules were cursing every word.
Jessi had made me feel seen. As the oldest daughter of six with a sharp drive for achievement and a keen awareness of social expectations, my leadership roles generally put me in a caretaker position. Hearing someone else acknowledge the hardships of being that caretaker and looking out for others had broken down a few of my walls. I was unwilling to end the Zoom call, and I suddenly knew that this was the reason Jessi was chief wellness officer — only two hours of my time, but she had already left a profound impact on my life.
Jessi said one of the privileges of her role is being able to ask someone what they would choose to do if they only had more time to do it. “They don’t have time because they’re putting out fires all the time. So I can do some of these slower things that they wish they could do.
“I think that I’ve spent the year really trying to build relationships so that people know what I’m doing and why I’m doing it.”
University of Tennessee System Chief Wellness Officer Jessica Gold in her office in Memphis, Tennessee. Courtesy of Caleb Jia
‘Do what you have to do, but come home’: BAE as healing space for Black students at UT
EMILY HURST Copy Chief
Thursday, April 10, members of Black Students for Artistic Expression gathered in a candle-lit HSS classroom, complete with paintbrushes, paint and vases. Gathered in a circle on the tarp-covered floor, the students began their Art Therapy event with a vulnerable question-and-answer session. Outside, rain beat against the windows, but inside BAE members shared what’s been on their hearts lately.
The night was led by Via Jackson, a mental health professional, who works with those struggling with addiction. Jackson asked participants to reflect on what it meant to be a Black student on a predominantly white campus. She asked questions like ‘How have you felt unseen or unheard?’ ‘How do your experiences compare to those who attend a HBCU?’ and ‘What would your ancestors say about your acceptance to this university?’
The answers reflected a variety of perspectives within the community. Students spoke of being treated like diversity tokens, of racism both individual and institutional and erasure of safe spaces on campus, with no acknowledgement from the university. Some students touched on the Trump administration’s recent attacks on DEI, and how this has affected Black students on campus. The conversation turned inward as well.
Each student reflected on what their ancestors might wish for them at the University of Tennessee. Everyone acknowledged the range of emotions that might be experienced, but they landed on relief and joy.
“Do what you have to do, but come home,” one student said.
Giving back to the community was a highlight of the therapy session. Several students wondered how they might best return to and give back to those who raised them. Within the group, there was a strong sense of connection to their heritage and communities back home, wherever that may be.
Artistic expression is a vital part of the group’s mission to promote creativity and community. Painting is just one of those avenues of expression. Jackson provided vases, all of different shapes, sizes and textures, for the group to paint. Jackson said that she chose vases as they “have a purpose and use.”
Each vase told a story. They included colors from tribes and flags, of family memories and of different emotions. As the vases dried, everyone pitched in to help clean up. Even this felt symbolic of the collective care that defines BAE.
paints a vase during Black Students for Artistic Expression’s art therapy event. Thursday, Aril 10, 2025. Courtesy of Garrison Lewis
BAE isn’t just a space for Black students to be themselves, it is a collaborative and creative space that honors all kinds of expression. Their members represent a diversity of mediums — paint, music, fashion, dance and more.
Layla Moore, vice president of BAE, said that art is a form of self-expression and that creativity supports mental health.
“Art can be a way to lighten our burdens and take a break from some of the heaviness of our lives,” Moore said.
This attitude carries into music practice as well, where some members of BAE are preparing for the upcoming MIC Fest on April 26. When they reach the music building, the energy builds. The space explodes with sound, including drums, electric guitars, piano and impressive vocals. They rehearse a vibrant, genre mixing, setlist. It includes Olivia Rodrigo, Car Seat Headrest and Brie Larson’s version of Black Sheep.
After the practice session, the group decides to go to Chick-Fil-A. Here is where BAE’s heart as a connected community is most evident. They swap stories, tease each other and plan their weekends. They discuss their upcoming short film, titled “The Cut,” premiering on May 1, and their performance at MIC Fest. It’s a busy group, but they don’t seem to mind.
Within a Greek Life centered campus culture, BAE offers something unique. Sustainability and mental health look different for different student organizations. For BAE, it often looks like a painted vase and a song shared around a piano.
To learn more about the group, you can visit their Instagram page @utkbae, attend their upcoming MIC Fest on April 26 or go to “The Cut” premier on May 1.
Sherleen Mwaura
RYAN OSBORN Cartoonist
6 ways to shop local produce, meats, services in Knoxville
EMMA CASKILL Arts and Culture Editor
Supporting local farmers instead of shopping at chain grocery stores not only benefits the farmers, but it benefits your health. Knowing where your food comes from is becoming increasingly difficult, especially when lower prices are offered at stores like Walmart, Publix, and Kroger. Listed below are six local, farm-fresh options that are both budget-friendly and health-friendly.
Farm Fresh Produce
A family-owned and operated business, Farm Fresh Produce grows almost all the products sold in their store, including seasonal vegetables and fruits, dairy products, bread, sweets, flowers and more. Located at 3617 Sutherland Ave., their location is close to campus for an easy commute.
Jesse’s Butcher Shop
Located at 4801 Kingston Pike, Jesse’s Butcher Shop has anything you need from meats to cheese. This family-owned business takes pride in what they sell, with a commitment to traditional, sustainable farming practices, according to their website.
Market Square Farmers’ Market
The weekly farmers’ market, held in downtown Knoxville’s Market Square, will begin on Saturday, May 3, and will occur every following Wednesday and Saturday until late November. These markets enable local farmers to sell their seasonal produce, providing customers with the opportunity to eat healthily and feel satisfied.
Three Rivers Market
The mission of Three Rivers Market is to “benefit its members by creating and nourishing a healthier environment, healthier people, and a healthier community.” Located at 1100 N Central St, Three Rivers has a wide variety of products and services including prepared foods and a hot bar.
New Harvest Farmers Market
Beginning Thursday, April 24 New Harvest Farmers Market will occur weekly until late September. Located at New Harvest Park, its farmers market strives to grow farmer’s businesses and provide the best produce to the community.
Market Wagon
This online service allows customers to shop from hundreds of local and non-local farmers with the convenience of staying at
home. Market Wagon delivers fresh produce right to your doorstep. Customers can shop from any seller of their choice, gauging what is right for them.
There are many other ways to fill your fridge with local products in Knoxville. East Tennessee farmers work hard to provide us with the best options from food to flowers. Show your support for them and our environment by shopping local the next time you need a grocery trip.
Amped about electric vehicles: UT students get charged up with test drives, gift cards
Club hope to convey to students that driving an electric vehicle is better for the environment than gas, but entertaining and inexpensive.
the brake at all, just using the pedal… The car was just built really well, but it was a super smooth experience and it was really cool.”
The University of Tennessee has over 500 student organizations, but the Electric Vehicle Club is a new organization that seeks to change student and faculty perceptions about EVs.
On April 22nd, at the Earth Day event, the EV Club hosted its “EV Ride Experience,” offering 50 students a $10 Amazon gift card in exchange for taking a ride down Cumberland Avenue in a Ford Lightning, a Rivian and a Tesla.
Jonathan Overly, UT alum and Executive Director and founder of the East Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition, has advocated for the club’s creation and spearheaded the EV Ride Experience.
“I believe the primary goals would be to educate other students about the many benefits of driving electric, as well as work to provide more experiences to students to get behind the wheel and drive one,” Overly said. “Literally riding in or driving an EV can really help the learning process so that you more fully understand what kind of a paradigm shift EVs are, such as the fact that in most cases owners charge their vehicles at home — you don’t need to stop and buy a combustible fuel anymore.”
Through the EV Ride Experience, Overly and associates who have helped advocate for the EV
“First of all, the constant torque provides quickness that is unrivaled in similar-sized gasoline-powered cars, so they are more fun. Second, moving from a gas car to a similarsized EV and charging using electricity from the local grid reveals a reduction in (greenhouse gas) emissions that can be well over 50%. Third, gas cars have roughly 2,000 moving parts. EVs having roughly 20 moving parts, so there is much less to maintain over the life of the car,” Overly said.
Ashley Draper, Darcy Ayers and Jenny Kidd, East Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition associates, signed students up to ride in an electric vehicle at the Earth Day event. They helped students understand EVs better and promote the new club.
Amelia Rusticie, a freshman studying biology, is one student who rode in the EV. She said that it was fun and fast, and she enjoyed that it was eco-friendly. She expressed excitement about riding in the other electric cars to see what they were like.
Chris Kreyr, a junior studying electrical engineering, got a chance to ride in all three offered vehicles.
“The cars were a lot smoother than I thought they would be,” Kreyr said. “She actually had to tell me that she wasn’t hitting
Kreyr commented that he would purchase an EV now if the price decreased.
Overly addressed one widespread concern among students — that EV’s are too expensive to purchase.
“First we should note that used EVs are becoming much more commonplace — just Google ‘used electric vehicles’ and you will find Carvana, CarMax, EV.com, Autotrader and other websites that have used EVs for sale,” Overly said. “Depending on your driving needs, these used EVs could be under $10,000. So there are now options that don’t necessitate purchasing a new EV. Otherwise, for those that walk, bike or take the bus to campus (or even carpool), they are already largely negating what would probably be their most significant greenhouse gas emissions source.”
Another concern is the stigma surrounding owning an EV. Jack Zimberg, a freshman aerospace engineering major, said he cares about his environmental impact, but would rather not be caught in a Tesla now.
Overly experienced this vandalism firsthand as he had his Tesla recently keyed.
“It’s the kind of world we live in,” Overly said. “That’s not going to stop me from driving my Tesla. My opinion of my car is what I tell others, ‘You can pry my car from my cold,
Darcy Ayers, Jenny Kidd, and Ashley Draper run the Drive Electric Tennessee table at the Earth Day event on April 22nd, promoting the UT EV Club. Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Chloe Carmichael / The Daily Beacon
dead hands,’”
Eric Cardwell, UT alum and president of the Knoxville Electric Vehicle Association, stated that Teslas are not the only option for students who want to lower their environmental footprint.
“You can drive a VW, you can drive a truck, you can drive any EV that you want, but most people come to experience this: that it’s smoother, quieter, and it’s going to save money in the long run as long as you can charge where you live…,” Cardwell said. “I would prefer to remove the EV from the politics.”
Patrons browse the Nourish Knoxville’s Farmers’ Market on a Saturday afternoon. Madelyn Stone / Contributor
CHLOE CARMICHAEL Contributor
A guide to Student Counseling Center, answering questions, clearing misconceptions
Contributor
Housed on the second floor of the University of Tennessee’s Student Health Center is the Student Counseling Center, where students can schedule appointments with an individual counselor or participate in group counseling sessions.
Despite being the primary mental health resource for inresidence students, many still regard it as a mystery. There are many myths surrounding the SCC and its operations. It is essential to dispel any misconceptions and address potential questions students may have about the Counseling Center and its operations, so that they can fully utilize the available services.
According to a 2024 analysis from Mental Health America, the United States is facing a severe mental health crisis. Nicole Saylor, Director of the Student Counseling Center, has provided some insight into their operations.
For starters, insurance is not required to use the SCC’s services, which can be beneficial for students who struggle to find counseling services that accept their insurance.
“All services are covered by the Student Programs and Services Fee, so if you’re enrolled at UT and have paid that fee, you can use SCC services at no additional cost,” Saylor said.
The Counseling Center offers both shortterm and long-term therapy sessions. For long-term therapy, students are referred to off-campus services with assistance from SCC staff. Students can also meet with a care coordinator from the Center for Care and Resilience, who will guide you through your options and help you connect at 865974-HELP.
The SCC promises confidentiality to its students, a promise it takes very seriously.
“The SCC follows the same privacy and confidentiality rules as any licensed mental health provider,” Saylor said. “Your therapy records are totally separate from your academic or health records, and nothing is shared without your signed, written permission.”
There are, however, some legal exceptions that allow therapists to break confidentiality laws to keep someone safe when there is risk of harming one’s self or others, or if abuse of a child or vulnerable adult is involved, according to Saylor.
However, due to their legal role as therapists, SCC staff are not required to be Title IX mandatory reporters. Therefore, if students were to discuss incidents about sexual assault, domestic violence or harassment, that info stays private.
The SCC also offers group therapy, in which you are placed in a group with other students and monitored by SCC counselors.
“Before joining, everyone goes through a group screening, where confidentiality and group expectations are explained. The SCC also screens for things like shared majors, clubs or friend groups to avoid placing people who already know each other in the same group,” Saylor said.
Group therapy can be offered for specific groups, such as BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, among others. Group therapy at the SCC is also available on an unlimited basis. The SCC occasionally offers mental health workshops that are available to all students.
The SCC also remains open during breaks for students who wish to continue using their services during this time. The SCC is closed, however, when the university is officially closed.
“Summer services are a unique time period,” Saylor said. “If you’re enrolled in spring and are enrolled and will return in fall, you can use SCC services in the summer by paying the summer SPSF.
One important thing: Licensing laws prevent us from providing services to anyone physically located outside of Tennessee. That means SCC providers cannot do Zoom sessions with students who are in another state.”
For students who may be unable to attend the SCC in person or who prefer to participate in sessions remotely, individual
and group sessions are available via telehealth through a secure, HIPAAcompliant Zoom platform. Additionally, for students without access to a private space for sessions, the SCC offers telehealth rooms. However, telehealth is not available for triage or crisis appointments, and you must be located in Tennessee to use it.
The Student Counseling Center no longer prescribes medication to students.
“If you’re working with someone at the (SCC), they can help refer you to the Student Health Center if you’re interested in medication,” Saylor said. “You can also contact the Student Health Center’s psychiatry clinic directly — no referral needed.”
To schedule an appointment at the Student Counseling Center, call 865-9742196 to arrange a triage appointment. Students in crisis can also call this number.
“During that initial appointment, a therapist will help figure out what kind of support makes the most sense for you,” Saylor said. “You might be referred to individual therapy, group therapy or to services off campus. Either way, you’ll leave that appointment with a clear plan for what comes next.”
After hours, you can still call the Counseling Center’s number to talk to an on-call counselor with the after-hours service. The SCC will get a report of your call. Saylor emphasized that in the event of a life-threatening emergency, always call 911.
If you are interested in the SCC’s services, you can find more information on their website.
“For starters, insurance is not required to use the SCC’s services, which can be beneficial for students who struggle to find counseling services that accept their insurance.”
Sarah-Nicole Jackson Contributor
SARAH-NICOLE JACKSON
There are many myths surrounding the Student Counseling Center and its operations. Here, contributor, Sarah-Nichole Jackson clears up these misconceptions and explains how the SCC works. Sarah-Nicole Jackson / The Daily Beacon
OPINION: Wildfires in the Smokies: What we can do to prevent them
AUBREY HOLLAND Columnist
The Smokies have faced a few frightening wildfires this past March due to extremely dry conditions, and as someone who has consistently visited the Smoky Mountains their whole life, these wildfires struck a chord in me.
Although they were fortunately contained, we must now look to what can be done to make the Smoky Mountains safer during wildfire season.
In March, Sevier County firefighters responded to multiple wildfires in the Smoky Mountains, caused by high winds and dry conditions, which affected most of the Pigeon Forge and Sevier County areas. Although no one was injured, a few minor structures were damaged by fallen trees and wind, resulting in a significant amount of debris.
The largest wildfire grew to 1,067 acres near Webb mountain, and took a few days to contain. Thankfully, the other fires weren’t as daunting and were all contained within a day. Gatlinburg Street Department crews diligently worked to immediately clear all damage and roadways while telling civilians to remain cautious.
Thanks to the sudden rainfall, the Gatlinburg Fire Department lifted the burn ban it had placed during the wildfires shortly after they were contained, urging the public to remain alert and aware of possible fire danger and changing weather conditions.
Though these wildfires seem like minor occurrences, a lot could’ve been different if the fire crews didn’t act as fast. Truthfully, it is scary to imagine what it must have felt like being in those areas after all of the fear caused by California’s previous fire crisis, as well as Hurricane Helene damaging these beloved mountains this past fall.
My family and I visit the Smokies as often as we can, staying in a beautiful cabin owned by my great-uncle. I have come to value the community and the natural beauty of the Smokies as a beloved refuge that will always welcome me home. Many memories and times spent in those woods are a significant part of my love for the mountains, and that’s why I believe it’s crucial to advocate for them.
It is so important that those of us who live in these areas or are frequent visitors do our part to prevent further damage from wildfires. Na-
tional parks and natural wildlife have a right to be protected as well as enjoyed by the public.
By being educated about wildfires and what we can do to prevent them, we can take an active role in caring for the Smoky Mountains. As defined by National Geographic, wildfires are uncontrolled fires that burn in the wildland vegetation, often in rural areas. They can burn in any ecosystem, including forests, grasslands and savannas. Natural occurrences, such as lightning, frequently spark wildfires, and these events are often exacerbated by weather conditions, as seen in recent events in Gatlinburg. This can be dangerous not only to the Smoky Mountains but also to their residents. However, it is well known that humans are often a large cause of wild-
fires without knowing it.
If you are someone who camps frequently or enjoys the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are several simple tips and strategies to help you do your part in preventing wildfires.
Keeping an eye on the weather and checking its conditions is important when participating in activities with fire. Whether it’s a campfire, fireworks, cooking or other fire-related activities, you should avoid participating in them when weather conditions are hot, dry or windy. These conditions are most common during wildfire season, which typically spans from mid-February to mid-May.
When building a campfire or bonfire, it should only be started in areas clear of vegetation. It is smart to create a campfire in a fire pit or surrounded by stones to contain it from any possible flammable objects. You should completely extinguish your fire with water and check for any leftover sparks when you are done, ensuring it is completely cold. However, most importantly, you should never leave your fire unattended, as this is a common cause of wildfires.
There are many ways that someone could accidentally start a fire. Being mindful when outdoors is essential, as it could possibly start an unintentional fire. Disposing of and regularly checking these types of things could safely prevent such an incident. Objects such as matches or lighters should be monitored
and used properly. Reckless activity with these things can also lead to unwanted fires and injuries.
To simplify these points, Smokey Bear has a list of Five Rules of Wildfire Prevention:
1. Only you can prevent wildfires
2. Always be careful with fire
3. Never play with matches or lighters
4. Always watch your campfire
5. Make sure your campfire is completely out before leaving it
As humans living on this Earth, we should continue to value the wildlife and planet we are a part of every day. Natural disasters, such as wildfires, can affect entire communities and ecosystems.
By remaining continuously aware and educated, we can all make a significant difference in protecting one another and making places like the Smokies safer for all kinds of life.
Aubrey Holland is a sophomore at UT this year studying creative writing. She can be reached at aholla49@vols.utk.edu.
Columnist Aubrey Holland says, “It is so important that those of us who live in these areas or are frequent visitors do our part to prevent further damage from wildfires. National parks and natural wildlife have a right to be protected just as much to be enjoyed by the public.” Ansley Graves/ The Daily Beacon
OPINION: Overinformed, overwhelmed: Unprecedented times for our mental health
FLANNERY LEMMONDS
Columnist
For months, I’ve been struck with a feeling that’s hard to describe. It feels like the world is crumbling while simultaneously everything is staying the same. When I’m scrolling on social media or reading a news article, I’m overwhelmed with the knowledge of every bad thing happening in the world. However, when I’m out in my day-to-day life, it feels like nothing is changing at all.
I know I’m not alone, and every day this weird, existential feeling just grows stronger. How is life just going to go on the way it has been despite it feeling like the weight of the world is on my shoulders?
As this feeling becomes more prevalent in society, a term coined by author Alexei Yurchak has been resurfacing — “hypernormalisation.”
Hypernormalisation describes this surreal feeling of disconnect between the outside world and your own world. Along with this sort of hopeless feeling, it can also describe the feeling of guilt you experience when you’re upset about something, despite knowing that someone else out there has it worse than you.
Sound familiar?
Today, there’s an emphasis on the importance of knowing everything. With how accessible the internet makes information, there’s no excuse to be uninformed. Or is there? When it comes down to it, there’s a difference between being ignorant, and not doom scrolling for hours learning about the different ways the world could end.
It is easy to overlook good news and focus immediately on the bad. When every news headline utilizes this bias to garner your attention, we just end up with bad news in our feeds all the time.
As a society, I think we need to recognize how this is affecting our mental health. We are the first generation to have global news at our fingertips at all times. While older generations would hear about things from the newspaper or the radio, we’ve grown up seeing it all on TV. Not only are you watching violence in your country, you are seeing it in every other one too. We’ve been so desensitized to it that we don’t even realize it’s affecting us. Even if you’re someone who doesn’t find themselves engaging with news too often, you’ve most likely seen a graphic photo or video that has stuck with you for a while, or walked into a room right when the TV channel was reporting an act of violence. Social media and the internet has exposed us to an overload of information — more than our brains are used to taking in. So when you’re consuming mass amounts of media of
everything that’s going on around the world, you’re just left overwhelmed. When we’re so overwhelmed with the knowledge of every problem in the world, we can’t do anything about the problems right in front of us.
I’m as guilty of this as anyone. I’ve recently been reflecting on how this is affecting my mental health, and what I can do about it.
As a political science major, “not looking” simply isn’t an option. I want to make a difference in the world, but how much of a difference can I make when I’m laying in bed having an existential crisis on how I can’t single-handedly fix society’s problems?
Not only is this not healthy, it’s not proactive in actually helping fix any of the issues that I care about.
Just a couple of weeks ago, on the HSS lawn, I coincidentally overheard students discussing the same issues I have been worried about. The students were talking about how they have gotten to a point where they don’t want to look at the news because it just leaves them depressed. While I was actually trying to write on this exact topic at the time, I took it as a sign to go up and talk to them about it.
This is where I met Klarissa Martinez, a sophomore here at the University of Tennessee. She was kind enough to let me interview her on the issue.
“A lot of the media I used to consume has changed. I used to enjoy, in general, being politically informed, things like that, and knowing what was going on with current events. I’ve always liked history too, so I’ve always
liked to know how that ties into today’s political climate. I’ve definitely stopped consuming that kind of media the past couple of months. Especially in the past year, for sure. It’s been slow, little by little,” Martinez said.
You always think that no one knows how you feel better than yourself, but hearing her perspective opened my eyes to just how much my news consumption was hurting my mental health — something she’s learned and has taken action on in her own life. If this is happening to one person, it’s happening to many, and it’s something that we don’t necessarily consider a problem until we look at it from the outside in.
“My social media use has drastically gone down. Being on social media, I feel like you tend to get a lot of political content, or things on today’s events. … Using social media less, even then, with the content that I do get, if it seems very depressing or seems to be doomerism, that’s when I just scroll onto the next post,” Martinez said.
If it is important, I do try to watch it, but not too much. To counteract that ‘depressing-ness’ of today, I started hanging out more with friends … now that it’s the spring semester, … I’ve been on HSS lawn a lot enjoying the sun and listening to music. I’ve definitely reverted back to things that make me happy.”
Hearing Martinez talk about her experiences made it clear to me that the issue is not black and white. It’s not as simple as either being informed or uninformed. You don’t
have to engage with every piece of information you can find online in order to be involved with the causes you care about.
This is not to insinuate that it’s a bad thing to be aware of what’s going on in the world. The first step toward any societal change is an informed population that recognizes there’s an issue.
Often we focus so much on the idea of societal change that we forget about ourselves and our own lives. When we can find out anything in an instant, we forget that things take time. Throughout history, every organized movement took years of planning and fighting. When we focus all of our time consuming media about other people’s lives, we let our own lives be put on a back burner, and our mental health becomes collateral damage.
It is essential to remember that in a world where everything is at our fingertips — both good and bad — we must be patient and take a moment to reflect on what happiness means to us.
Columnist Flannery Lemmonds expresses that negative media can sometimes have a large impact on mental health. She says, “Social media and the internet has exposed us to an overload of information, more than our brains are used to taking in.” Ansley Graves/ The Daily Beacon
Flannery Lemmonds is a freshman at UT studying political science. She can be reached
OPINION: Within the Mindscape: Struggling beneath the noise of depression
MARIA MADRID Columnist
This article discusses issues surrounding mental helath, suicide and self harm. Please be advised.
For as long as I can remember, my mind has been in control of me.
Throughout my childhood, my selfesteem and self-perception took a toll on my mindset. A simple thought took over my mind and began to spiral, causing me to think about my body, personality and behavior. I do not think I ever fully understood why my brain worked the way it did, or how certain thoughts were not typical for a child of my age. It was not until entering high school that I understood concepts like depression, body dysmorphia and eating disorders.
The summer before high school, I was unmotivated to get out of bed and didn’t speak to any of my friends. I only remember reading a lot at night, trying to find an escape in books. Food was something I could not bear the thought of, and it physically pained me even to eat something as simple as a sandwich. I remember crying, trying to chew on something that made a knot in my throat and made me feel so powerless.
Self-harm is something that I have not struggled with as much as others, except in middle school. It was difficult to bring myself to speak with anyone in my family about my mental state, despite the safe space I always had growing up, so I stayed quiet, and when the school year began, I was distracted enough not to notice how much pain I was in. I began to think my mental state mainly was a phase until my junior year of high school, when I started to feel consumed by my mind again. My mental state was in shambles, but my academic success was something I would always put first. Every day I came home, laid in bed and contemplated suicide, even coming up with ways I could do so. I would say that when
Columnist Flannery Lemmonds expresses that negative media can sometimes have a large impact on mental health. She says, “Social media and the internet has exposed us to an overload of information, more than our brains are used to taking in.” Ansley Graves/ The Daily Beacon
I am in this state, I am always functioning in other areas of my life because I force myself towards perfection, so depression is not easily recognizable in my life habits but instead takes place in my mindscape. My mindscape is a place that is never under control — going from hateful and agonizing thoughts about anything I can tear apart about myself to dreadful days that I cannot bear to wake up to. My mood has always fluctuated, leaving me feeling confused and unable to truly recognize who I am in the mirror and who I am as a person. As cliché as it sounds, I can honestly say that on days I feel like I should not be here, I remind myself that I made it through before.
My mother is someone who has always tried her best to help and has always been so understanding, but to this day, I don’t understand why my brain does not allow
me to share my pain with her. She stayed when I did not feel like eating and waited until I finished a meal, no matter how long it took. She tried her best to give me a space to share what was on my mind, but I never budged.
At the time, my sister was not far from home, but since she spent her days living on campus, I rarely saw her. I underestimated how much happiness she truly brought me, whether she was living in the room next to me or throughout our childhood, when we shared everything, including a bed. The only person I truly tried to let in was my best friend — she is someone who never fails to understand my thoughts, no matter how dark they get.
I appreciate everything she did for me that year and has continued to do so since the day I met her. Without her, I don’t think I would have made it to the age of 17, and I would have never had the courage to tell my mom I needed help.
Unfortunately, I failed to realize I already had a built-in support system with beautiful souls that have always been around me that year, but I now recognize when I need to speak to the people I love. Junior year of high school was the first time I tried seeking therapy, and for a while, I didn’t understand its purpose, but it helped to talk to someone neutral — I did not feel like I was
a burden to the people who cared for me by being in pain myself.
My mind is always going to have ongoing issues that resurface consistently, and that is something I can accept, but not completely give up on.
Still, I can recognize that it is not a journey I need to force myself to undertake alone, but instead, to indulge in the help that is around me, including reaching out to a professional again. I now strive to find the small things in life that bring me peace and acknowledge that, although my mind is not something I can control, it is something I can try to nurture and treat with kindness.
If you or anyone you know are struggling, please seek help by calling the national suicide hotline at 988, or reach out to the Student Counseling Center.
Maria Madrid is a freshman at
OPINION: The healing power of hobbies: How personal passions promote wellness
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed?
For many, including myself, the answer lies in the quiet joy of hobbies. Hobbies aren’t just pastimes they are portals to comfort and spaces where time slows. The act of creating, making, or simply being can breathe new life into our well-being and mental health.
In a 2023 study conducted by Nature Medicine, Harvard Health Publishing notes that having a hobby is beneficial for one’s health and mental well-being.
More than 93,000 people across 16 countries aged 65 or older periodically answered questionnaires about their health and wellbeing over a four to eight-year period. Those who had hobbies reported better health, greater happiness, fewer symptoms of depression and higher life satisfaction. The researchers concluded that hobbies strengthen involvement with creativity, sensory engagement, self-expression, relaxation and cognitive stimulation.
In my personal experience, hobbies like reading, coloring, and listening to music serve as sweet sources of serenity each day, especially when life feels overwhelming. It’s such a comforting feeling to curl up with a good book, and escape into another world. Coloring, too, has become a soft hug for my heart, reminding me that there’s always a place for me to unwind. Whether it’s a playlist that matches my mood or a song that uplifts me, music has always been my constant companion.
These hobbies are not particularly about fixing anything, but about creating pockets of peace where I can just be. I’d like to introduce you to some of the key aspects that make these my favorite hobbies and activities, in the hope that they can serve as a healing balm for your soul as well.
The first of my favorite healing hobbies is the magical world of coloring. This hobby has become an essential part of my relaxation routine. My favorite coloring books have shifted to the whimsical world of “Hygge Coloring Books,” where cheerful creatures partake in everyday moments — these animals are just like us. This vibrant and fun hobby is one that melts the stress of the day away.
Next, listening to music and curating playlists have always been among my favorite hobbies. Currently, I have approximately 68 playlists on Spotify, spanning a diverse range of genres, including rap, R&B, golden oldies, pop and more.
Music is a universal healer that is always there for us when we’re feeling joy, heartbreak, nostalgia, or anything in between.
Reading is another one of my favorite
past-times. “A book is a gift you can open again and again,” said author Garrison Keillor. I wholeheartedly agree.
I also love vision boards because they help you connect with yourself, your aspirations and moods. Specifically, I love doing vision boards with my mom. Each new year we sit down and create our vision boards for the year ahead. This is a budget-friendly and sustainable option as we search for free magazines from our community to incorporate into our vision boards.
Just like my love for vision boards, I am an avid mood-board enthusiast. Mood boarding involves curating a collection of images that evoke emotions and help express various moods and positive vibes. While the most popular platforms for creating mood boards are Pinterest and Canva, you can also craft physical mood boards for a more tangible experience.
Journaling as a hobby offers numerous benefits including stress reduction, improved emotional regulation and enhanced self-awareness.
I’ve been journaling daily for years, and it has become a cherished practice in my life. Journaling has evolved into various forms to suit different interests. One such variation is nature journaling, which involves documenting your connections with the natural world, recording fascinating facts and creat-
ing drawings or incorporating photographs. It’s a wonderful way to engage with nature while fostering mindfulness and creativity.
Another fun and easy hobby is a podcast and picnic. Grab a blanket, pack a tote bag with a sandwich, snacks, treats and head outside. Set up in a spot outside and enjoy a podcast picnic (bonus points if it’s an environmentally themed podcast).
If podcasts aren’t your thing, no worries — I’m the same way. I would like to introduce you something I call, “Chill and Chew,” where, instead of a podcast, you put on your favorite show and enjoy your snacks.
When incorporating my love for the environment, thrifting is my favorite sustainable hobby. The fashion industry, including fast fashion, is one of the largest culprits of pollution.
For fashion fanatics, upcycling clothes is considered a sustainable hobby that nurtures our planet. A great way to start this hobby is by visiting the Free Store,which is part of the Office of Sustainability at the University of Tennessee, located at 915 22nd St., Knoxville, TN. The Free Store offers free items, including clothes, shoes, accessories and more, to students, faculty and staff at their storefront, as well as pop-up events on campus.
Lastly, gardening is a truly rewarding
hobby for both one’s mental health and the planet. Research has shown that gardening increases happiness, creativity, productivity and self-esteem, while also reducing the effects of dementia and PTSD. As you garden, you’re minimizing pollutants in the water, soil and air, as well as clearing the emotional pollutants of stress, anxiety and depression from your life.
With all these hobbies in mind, I hope this encourages you to make a little space in your day for nourishing your soul. Whether it’s tending to a tiny plant, scribbling thoughts in a notebook, crafting, reading or mending what’s worn, may your hobbies become your soft place to land.
Here’s to finding joy in the small things. May you discover hobbies that heal, ground and remind you that you are deeply connected — to yourself and the world around you.
Columnist Marissa Hunt shares a few of her favorite sustainable hobbies that fuel both her mind and the environment, such as thrifting, coloring, and gardening. Ansley Graves/ The Daily Beacon
Marissa Hunt is a junior at UT studying journalism. She can be reached at mhunt44@vols.utk.
