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The Flourish, May 2026

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Celebrating Five Years of Flourish Together

This May edition invites you to celebrate, connect, and honor the mental health journey we've been on together. Join us at Flourish Fest '26 on May 8th from 6:00 - 9:00 pm at Terman Fountain as we mark five years of uplifting mental health resources and student stories on campus- featuring authentic student voices, campus resource booths, giveaways, dancing, and a floating lantern ceremony to light up the night!

That same spirit of connection and growth continues in this month's issue. We explore practical DBT skills for navigating life's challenges, hear honest reflections on transitioning to grad school, spotlight Cardinal Recovery's support for students navigating addiction and recovery, provide guidance for embracing new beginnings as graduation season approaches, and hear tips from an alumnus. We hope that through these reflections, resources, and shared experiences, whether at Flourish Fest '26 or here on the page, you find something that helps you flourish this month and beyond.

Decorative Cardinal Red accent line.
Flourish Fest flyer detail.

Celebrate With Us at Flourish Fest '26!

In Focus

Join us for Stanford’s largest mental health awareness event on May 8th from 6:00 - 9:00 pm, celebrating the five-year anniversary of The Flourish and the work we’ve done on campus to uplift mental health resources and student stories. Explore Stanford's wellness resources and engage in activities that support mental health and well-being. Free Chipotle, boba, ice cream, picnic blankets, flourish swag, floating lanterns, student art, mental health stories, student performances, and a live DJ are included! Let’s come together as a community and flourish together. 

Artist painting plant composition. Credit/macrovector

Trying New Things Has No Age Limit

Featured Student Story

As a senior preparing to graduate in a few weeks, I was not expecting to make so many new friends during my last couple of quarters on campus. I’ve genuinely met so many incredible people I would never have known if it weren’t for trying new things. I reflect on my journey through this institution and see that I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in every community I’ve wanted to be part of, with some major ones completed during my final year.

Illustration of Vaden Health Services at night.

After-Hours Care if Vaden Health Services is Closed

In the Spotlight

Did you know that Stanford students have access to support services for medical and mental health needs outside of Vaden Health Services' regular hours? Multiple 24/7 options are available at no cost, including virtual care platforms, nurse advice lines, crisis intervention services, and confidential support for those experiencing sexual violence. All services ensure that timely care is available whenever unexpected challenges arise.

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Life as a Co-term

How is Life Tree(ting) You?

About a third of all Stanford undergraduates will participate in a co-term program, and about half of these students will complete both bachelor and master degrees in five years. As a co-term, you experience Stanford as both an undergrad and grad student. How do these experiences differ, and how should one prepare for this transition?

Education graduation aesthetic illustration design. Credit rawpixel.com.

Five Things I Wish I Knew Before Graduating

Alumni Corner

Walking across the symbolic stage last June at graduation, I was hit with gratitude for my time at Stanford, but simultaneously looming sadness and unwavering uncertainty. On the Farm, my routine was the anchor that kept me grounded. Suddenly, campus wasn't mine anymore. I had to find a new home with new communities—all while adjusting to adulthood. Here are lessons from my first year post-graduation.

An illustration of a woman surrounded by hands. Credit/sabbirr388.

TIPP of the Month

Tip of the Month

When things keep going wrong despite our best efforts, what can we do? DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) offers some solutions. In this month’s tip, we will explore acronyms that can help us come to terms with our situation and build our tolerance for distress.

Illustration featuring a Cardinal Recovery event.

Cardinal Recovery

Special Feature

Cardinal Recovery is a peer-led support program for students navigating addiction and mental health challenges. We host sober social events, recovery allyship trainings, and weekly all-recovery meetings—private spaces to discuss your experiences with peers and build tools for mental well-being. If you're struggling, please reach out—you're not alone.

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The Flourish

This online publication is your monthly guide to flourishing on the Farm. The Flourish provides tips, articles, and resources on key monthly health and wellness topics to support your mental health and well-being.