Thrive Together Event Promotes Connections

Organizers encourage attendees to log off technology for face-to-face dialogue

Sacred Heart University recently hosted its first Thrive Together event, aimed at promoting personal connections in a world of electronic communication. 

The event was a collaboration between the University, its Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center and SHU’s newest partner, Silver Hill Hospital of New Canaan. Organizers discussed the benefits of logging off technology for face-to-face connections and prioritizing self-care as they presented participants with new ways to maintain healthy lifestyles. 

The event’s highlight was a panel discussion about mental health. The panel was made up of counseling and metaphysical experts, led by James Geisler, SHU’s executive director of wellness services. Topics included loneliness, social media use and the many benefits of exercise. 

Following a welcome from Jeffrey LaBella, director of Sacred Heart’s counseling and collegiate recovery program, SHU President John J. Petillo spoke to the attendees, encouraging and thanking them for their continued support and willingness to confront tough topics. “In this day and age, it is incredibly important that we all be present. Our presence in our classrooms, our relationships and our day-to-day lives is of the utmost importance to ensuring we develop positive relationships,” said Petillo. 

Nicolas Patrakis, a freshman, appreciated that the panel answered questions regarding social media use for young people. “It was important how they discussed that what you perceive to be someone living their best life [based on their social media posts] might not at all be the truth,” he said. 

Freshman Kristiana Bauer was shocked by the effect of loneliness on people’s lives. “The discussion on how loneliness can actually have a greater impact on cardiovascular health than a physical habit like smoking was eye-opening. To me, this was a stark reminder that if I see a peer struggling, it is my responsibility to reach out to them and try to help, because their health is at stake,” she said. 

Following the discussion, attendees and students networked at a table fair and learned about the services the University provides to combat loneliness and encourage face-to-face connections.  

Pictured from left: Panelists included James Geisler (SHU Counseling Center), Jeffrey LaBella (SHU Counseling Center), Dr. Jeff Katzman (Silver Hill Hospital), Colleen Delaney (Move to Heal) and Karen Flanagan (SHU Counseling Center).