As fall semester draws to a close and finals week looms on the horizon, BYU-Idaho students have the chance for a much-needed opportunity to unwind at Chillfest, a wellness event aimed at reducing stress and promoting mental health. Hosted by the BYUI Wellness Center, Chilliest offers students a place to relax and practice stress management techniques before the pressure of exams sets in.

This semester, it will be hosted Dec. 4 from 5-7 p.m. in the Taylor Cultural Hall.

The idea for Chillfest originated from Tanner Mecham, an organizer with the Wellness Center, who was inspired by a similar event held at West Virginia University.

"I thought it would be a great idea to have our own Chillfest and make it a recurring event every semester to help create a positive atmosphere for mental health on campus," said Mecham.

This marks the second semester of Chillfest, which continues to grow in popularity and importance on campus.

While specific activities are still being finalized, attendees can expect to enjoy stress-relieving options such as vision boards, painting, board games, card games and coloring pages, as well as sand trays for creative expression.

Students will also be able to enjoy brownies and other refreshments as they take a well-deserved break from their academic pressures.

Chillfest aligns closely with the Wellness Center's mission to support students' holistic health.

"As we continue to help students with their physical and nutritional needs, we will also be putting more emphasis on other areas of wellness, including mental and emotional health," Mecham said.

The event also emphasizes the importance of taking time to manage stress, particularly during finals week, which can often leave students feeling overwhelmed.

"Studies have shown that prolonged stress can negatively impact test impact,” Mecham said.

In its inaugural semester, Chillfest attracted around 100 students, filling every seat for nearly two hours. This year, the Wellness Center hopes to increase attendance with more seating and a bigger turnout. Participants can also expect to take home handouts with stress-reduction tips and resources for managing test anxiety.

“Chillfest is designed to remind students that it can be very beneficial to take time during finals to practice stress management skills,” according to a recent Harvard study. “Creating a space for students to relax for a little while helps them recharge and reduces anxiety, ultimately improving their focus and performance during exams.”

For those who can't attend Chillfest, the Wellness Center offers other ways to help students cope with stress, including free weekly workshops through the BYUI Counseling Center.

Students interested in volunteering for Chillfest or other mental health initiatives are encouraged to get involved through the Wellness Center’s Hope Council, which offers opportunities to contribute to student well-being. For more information on volunteering, email hopecouncil@byui.edu.

As Chillfest continues to grow on campus, it’s clear that mental health and wellness events are becoming an integral part of the culture on the BYUI campus, helping students navigate the challenges of academics and life with greater resilience.

Photo Credit: BYU-Idaho Photo