Normally, getting a massage is self-serving, but Thursday students can treat themselves while helping those in need.
Chiro-Technology Spinal Health Center, 4064 E. Holt Road in Holt, will host Stress Relief Day - a chance to receive free clinic services in exchange for a donation to the American Red Cross.
The center will offer stress reduction education and a free massage or chiropractic adjustment from 10 a.m.-noon and 2-6 p.m.
“We are concerned about the stress levels and the health of our community because of this tragedy, and this is a way for us to help the people in New York too,” said Michele Spink, executive director of the center.
Foot Levelers Inc., a chiropractic supply company, is also sponsoring a program to match funds - currently $180,000 - collected by chiropractic offices around the nation.
“When we saw what our clients were doing, we wanted to help,” said Jeff Olsen, a customer service representative for the company. “So we matched funds raised by the offices.”
Spink said the most common problems caused by stress right now are neck and upper back tension, headaches.
“If you have a fever and signs of an obvious illness, it needs to be treated as that illness,” she said. “But if you are feeling fatigue, a lack of motivation and are not feeling well, it could be stress related.
“Whenever people have stress that is not dealt with, it affects everything. It attacks the body.”
Walter Kittle, a chiropractic physician at the center, offered suggestions for limiting the impact of stress during difficult times.
When faced with a bad situation, he said people should try not to panic. He recommended dealing with stress by talking about it with friends or family members.
Julie Ford, a public administration and public policy senior, said the tragedy had stressful effects on everyone, even if they were not directly involved.
“Some classes were canceled, and I think people were stressed about falling behind,” Ford said.
She said that it helps her to get out and walk her dog.
“Anything that gets me out of the same routine of doing homework and going to classes is good,” she said.
The MSU Counseling Center, located at 207 Student Services, also has many opportunities for students to relieve stress.
“This is a time when people are looking to regain a sense of control in their lives,” said Charlene Patterson, associate director of the center. “The attack caused many people to lose their feelings of safety and control - they may become unbalanced and anxious.”
Patterson said getting support from others will help to normalize feelings and reactions to the tragedy.
“Students should look at the different opportunities on campus,” she said. “Almost all the MSU support services are offering different opportunities and programs.”
