Healthy Heels is back for a new year, and we’re starting August by highlighting the wellness resources that help Tar Heels take care of themselves and each other.
A Healthy Heel is a member of the UNC-Chapel Hill community who strives to make decisions to move closer to health and wellness. That’s every single one of us because we all make decisions that impact our own wellness and the health of the Carolina community.
For Student Wellness, this means creating programs, sharing information, and supporting choices that help students build healthier routines and stronger connections. Wellness is not one-size-fits-all — it looks different for everyone, and it is shaped by identity, environment, and lived experience.
Healthy Heels is also a collaboration between the staff at Student Wellness, Counseling & Psychological Services, the Heels Care Network, and Campus Recreation.
Together, we work to create a healthier campus.
The Healthy Heels Philosophy
We believe that:
- What We Believe
- Our approach to wellness makes space for the many ways individuals and communities strive for and support each other’s health.
- Here’s the philosophy that drives everything we do:
- Health is a journey. Wellness looks different for everyone, and it takes real effort — but that effort is worth it. Wherever you are is the perfect place to move forward.
- Everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. Our identities, culture, finances, experiences, and environment all shape our health. Healthy Heels are committed to creating welcoming spaces and honest conversations that meet people where they are so everyone has access to the resources that keep you well.
- Your goals are your own. We’ll support what’s already working for you and offer new ideas to explore.
- Community matters. The people and environments around you influence your health in real ways. That’s why we focus on systems and surroundings, not just individual choices.
- It’s all connected. Your health supports your success. Healthy students learn better, focus longer, and enjoy college more.
- We rely on science and research. Social media trends can be fun, but not when it comes to knowing what’s best for health. We’ll share strategies grounded in research so you can make informed choices.
- Health comes in every size. Wellness isn’t about what you look like — it’s about how you live and feel.
- Sexuality is normal and healthy. We provide honest, easy-to-understand sexual health information and services without judgment.
- Together, we can prevent violence. We help Tar Heels understand the root causes of violence and how to build a safer, more respectful campus for everyone.
We need your help.
You are a critical part of the health and wellness landscape at UNC-Chapel Hill. We encourage you to…
- Connect with us on one of our many social media platforms, like @UNCHealthyHeels and @UNCCampusRec.
- Get involved with health and wellness initiatives on campus.
- Share your ideas and feedback with us and throughout campus. Share thoughts with Healthy Heels like health topics, events to promote, or any other feedback you have about how we can support health and wellbeing here at Carolina.
From sexual health information to violence prevention and community care, Student Wellness is here to help students make informed decisions and access the resources that support their well-being.