The stress of finals week was heavy on the Brothers of Beta Upsilon Chapter at the University of Delaware, but to raise their spirits and learn about mental health, the chapter held a Gather and Grow dinner at Sean’s House, a mental health haven in Newark, Delaware.
Brother Grant Lutes was one of the many brothers who was able to attend the dinner held in early December. Sean’s House got catering from Taverna Rustic Italian for the chapter and brought in speakers for the brothers to learn more about mental health and addiction.
“It was really helpful for them to say, these are the resources we provide, if you need help, you can just come and sit in the house, have a snack, do homework. It’s a calming and safe place,” Brother Lutes said about the presentations.
The event was held the day before finals but brought a sense of comfort and fun for the brothers. Brother Lutes said the chapter got some time to just enjoy each other’s company during such a busy time, which meant a lot to him and the roughly 20 other brothers who were able to attend.
He said someone from Sean’s House came by and presented to the brothers what the organization was and the resources it provided for those who may be struggling with their mental health or other things in their lives. Brother Lutes also noted how Sean’s House goes beyond mental health to make sure people’s overall health and wellbeing are taken care of.
After Sean’s House presented, they brought in someone who works in addiction and rehabilitation to speak to the chapter about resources and what to do if they or others fall into those habits.
I think it was really, really beneficial and probably one of my favorite events I’ve ever been a part of with the Fraternity,
He also said that Sean’s House provides training to students so that they can help those struggling in case someone wants help but may not want to seek out professional help from a counselor or therapist right away.
Brother Lutes said going to Sean’s House was a great reminder that sometimes when people are struggling, you may never realize it. The resources provided by Sean’s House are something that brothers can keep in their back pocket in case they ever need it.
He noted the importance of brotherhood bonding events such as this. It was a simple event that made a significant impact and was fun for everyone. He said the event was not only good for the brotherhood but also for the brothers’ individual well-being.
“Anything you can do to get together that increases bonds and brotherhood, whether it's doing a presentation, eating a dinner together, or going to Sean’s House, any part of that is good for brotherhood,” Brother Lutes said.
Alpha Gamma Rho has partnered with BetterMynds to support its brothers as part of the Fraternity’s Promise and Values. AGR members get three free, 50-minute telehealth visits through BetterMynds. AGR encourages members who feel they need it to utilize this great resource and share it with others.
To register for a telehealth visit, please go to www.bettermynd.com and register in the top right-hand corner.
