Our Mission Statement:

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S.T.A.R. (Students Talking About Relationships) provides both face-to-face and online peer support resources for the Brandeis community. All peer supporter students are trained by professionals on topics including, but not limited to, general counseling skills, campus resources and procedures, domestic/dating violence, rape crisis/sexual assault, eating disorders/body image issues, LGBTQ+ topics, and suicide/self-harm.  In addition to peer supporting, S.T.A.R. strives to promote mental wellness via engaging the community in self-care and stress relief events and activities.

 

S.T.A.R. aims to be a supportive resource for the Brandeis community, while promoting mental wellness and decreasing the stigma associated with reaching out for help. We provide a unique opportunity for students to speak with fellow peers, which can be more accessible and provide a different experience before taking the next steps to seek professional resources, if necessary. Through our work, we hope to build a campus climate that encourages wellness, openness, and warmth.

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How S.T.A.R. Can Help:

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We are a group of around 20 undergraduate students who are knowledgable and eager to listen. It is important to note that we are not licensed professionals, but we can offer a friendly, informal peer perspective. We are here to listen and support you in any way you need, whether that is processing what's on your mind or finding resources for you. 

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Any information you choose to share during office hours is completely voluntary and will remain confidential. However, please be aware that we do have an obligation to notify a staff member at Brandeis University if we believe that you are in imminent danger to yourself or someone else. 

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Topics That Peer Support Students Are Trained In:

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- Stress

- Depression (self-harm, suicidality)

- Anxiety

- Eating Disorders

- Sexual Assault

- Relationships (romantic and platonic)

- Domestic Abuse

- Adjustment to a new environment (including situations unique to international students)

- Substance use