Mental Health Seminar: The Healing Power of Presence - Mindfulness for Stress and Life Satisfaction
Monday, March 9 | 12 pm - 1:30 pm
What does it really mean to be present, and why does it matter for both our own well-being and the health of our communities? This seminar explores how mindfulness and presence can support mental and emotional health in everyday life. Through practical examples, guided reflection, and accessible mindfulness practices, participants will learn how cultivating awareness can reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and increase overall life satisfaction. Beyond individual benefits, the session will examine how presence fosters empathy, stronger relationships, and more thoughtful engagement with others. Participants will leave with simple, usable tools for integrating mindfulness into daily routines and for building healthier, more connected communities through intentional awareness. This seminar is open to everyone, whether you are new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your existing practice.
A licensed psychologist, Dr. Caroline Hexdall works at the intersection of lifespan development, well-being, and mindfulness. She completed her training at the University of Kansas and the University of South Carolina, and her fellowship at UNC’s Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities. Dr. Hexdall is the founder of the Center for Mindful Development, where she combines evidence-based psychology and mindfulness to support children, adolescents, and the broader community. She also serves as a psychologist at RSI Community in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where she works with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The Mental Health Seminar series is open to students, graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, faculty, and staff. They create a space for learning, reflection, and discussion. The overall goal of the seminars is to empower all campus community members to help influence campus mental health and well-being.
