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The Flourish, November 2025

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Be-leaf in Yourself!

Fall is in the air, and we’re already about midway through the quarter! The excitement of settling back into Stanford life might be wearing off a bit, but that’s okay. As we tackle the challenges of classes, extracurricular activities, and the changing seasons, let’s remember to embrace self-care practices that lift our spirits and help us connect with one another. This edition of The Flourish is packed with friendly tips to help us stay balanced as we head into midterms and settle into our routines. We also delve into the important topics of grief and depression, offering insights to navigate these tough feelings with compassion and care.

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Making Time for Gratitude

Featured Student Story

As I sit here before what feels like my billionth midterm at Stanford, I'm tired and unmotivated, but this exam is special— it's my first as a graduate student. I'm grateful for being the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree and for those who sacrificed for my education. Amidst my busy schedule, I’ve learned small ways to practice gratitude, like creating a "Gratitude Album" by taking pictures of happy moments, keeping a gratitude journal to jot down things I appreciate, and expressing thanks to others and myself. Reflecting on these practices helps me stay grounded and motivated.

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Overcoming Future Worries

In the Spotlight

You have probably been asked at least once throughout your academic journey, “What about after college?” Whether or not you have planned out your four years, the pressure from our current quarter stressors can often add to our worries about our future success. As you juggle assignments, exams, and personal commitments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the looming uncertainty of life beyond graduation.

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Navigating Grief: Cherrial's Perspective

How is Life Tree(ting) You?

When we think of grief, it is common to only think of it in the context of death. Grief extends beyond death, it can occur in life transitions, major internal shifts, changes in a relationship, etc… This article focuses on Cherrial's personal experience and reminders around grief, reflecting on the death anniversary of a loved one. 

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As Long as There is Life, There is Hope

Note to my Frosh Self

I often find myself wishing I could give my frosh self a big hug- and tell her that everything will be okay, even when the light at the end of the tunnel feels impossible to see. To the 18-year-old who spent months being unable to sleep, who was diagnosed with anxiety and depression, and who attempted to take her own life: I see you and your life matters. You are not alone.

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Financial Wellness & Stress: Rethinking the Money Mindset

Tip of the Month

Money shapes so much more than our wallets. It influences our stress levels, our sense of security, and can even consume our identity. By examining the pressures to “make more” and the obscure beliefs that drive financial stress, we can begin shifting from survival to flourishing and learn that true wealth is not about how much we earn, but how intentionally we live.

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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.