Project Hope tackles SLU students mental health and calmness

Hammond, LA (February 21, 2025) Project Hope is a student organization at Southeastern Louisiana University that recently hosted an event that targeted mental health for students. 

The event was held on February 18, 2025 at 5 p.m at the Student Union room 2218. The event was welcome to everyone who is interested in bettering their mental well-being. The sensory jars were to engage the senses and help people calm down. 

Makaila Selders, President of Project Hope, shared her insight on this event and why it came to be. 

“Our faculty advisor is a counselor, and she often uses these with her clients. I thought it would be great to introduce this method to students.” Selders said. 

She mentioned other methods that can be used as well. 

“Exercising, eating well and practicing mindfulness. You can also try connecting with others, taking breaks, and practicing gratitude.”, she stated. Selders continues to say, “We had many discussions and one I love is how we talked about how little some things could be, but they play a major role in our lives.” She added. 

“There are more audiences I want to see at these events and I plan to promote more about this organization.” She stated. 

This event consisted of different activities and various discussions other than the sensory jars. There were many icebreakers and ways for students to connect with each other. 

Kyla Harris, member of Project Hope who attended the event, shared her experience with the activity and what it means to her. 

“The sensory jars helped by providing a calming visual focus, slowing my breathing and serving as a grounding technique to ease anxiety. I plan to continue using this method to help manage stress in the future” Harris said. 

She continued to share her experience at the event. 

“I was drawn to attend the event because I was interested in learning new ways to manage stress and improve mental well-being.”, she said. Harris continues to say, “Some special topics discussed at the event included mindfulness, self-care strategies and stress management techniques. I would love to see more events like this in the future.”

“A funny moment was our icebreaker game! It was a fun game that got everyone involved and laughing.” She stated. 

The sensory jars were for every student on campus and those struggling to handle their emotions. 

Project Hope frequently hosts events for students to better their mental well-being and to help them during tough times. For more information on the organization and how to become a member, please visit @sluprojecthope on Instagram. 

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The mission of this organization is to focus on supporting the mental health of all students at the university. The goal of the organization is to promote healthy coping strategies, provide self-care activities, and peer support, share helpful resources, and learn skills/gain knowledge through presenters. The organization will provide a peaceful, stress-free space for all Southeastern students. For more information on the organization and how to become a member, please visit @sluprojecthope on Instagram.