MSU hosts mental health and wellness advocate Tim Warnock

 

MURRAY, Ky. – The Murray State University College of Education and Human Services’ (COEHS) Diversity Action Committee, together with the Murray State Athletics and Counseling Center, recently welcomed guest speaker Tim Warnock to the University’s campus.

Warnock delivered his presentations on March 5 at Wrather Hall and on March 6 at the COEHS Lunch & Learn event in Alexander Hall. He wrapped up his visit at Carr Hall, where he led a two-hour professional development session in physical education for current health and physical education students and local physical education teachers.

Warnock utilizes his experience as a former National Collegiate Athletic Association student-athlete, coach, athletic director and a teacher with over 30 years of service. He is also a survivor of complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. His impactful story was featured in various publications, including the 2020 issues of NEA Today and Esquire magazines. Through his personal journey of loss and resilience, Warnock sheds light on the significance of mental health and wellness.

“It’s important that the community realize that everyone is carrying a burden, that surviving our hardest hardships are the things that make us our most influential and helpful to others,” said Warnock. “That none of us do anything alone, especially in dealing with hardships so asking someone struggling to ‘reach out’ is not enough. You have to ‘reach in’."

He also emphasizes the importance of being present for others.

"Reaching in does not mean you fix their problem for them, nor does it mean you have to have the answers or magic words to say,” said Warnock. “You are providing the power of your presence and help prevent an isolation spiral for the person struggling, as well as you let them know they are being seen."

During his presentation, Warnock highlighted the connection between mental and physical well-being, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition, exercise and quality sleep habits. He explained the significance of initiatives such as the Mental Health First Aid from National Council for Mental Wellbeing (mentalhealthfirstaid.org/) in fostering a supportive environment for individuals in need and how teachers can bring positive mental health practices into the classroom. To accomplish this, Warnock believes educators should be given suicide prevention training in order to build awareness and better understand their students’ emotional wellbeing, making their classrooms a safe space. Warnock's insights offer valuable perspectives meant to break down mental health stigmas and promote proactive practices for overall well-being of both students and educators.

For more information, contact kvigil@murraystate.edu.