If you’ve followed Healthy Heels before, you’ll notice a few changes this year. As August begins, we’re taking a fresh look at the campus health resources available to students and reminding you that support is here when you need it.
At Campus Care at Carolina, we’re part of that support system. Our role is to provide student medical care and help students access the physical health services they need to stay well throughout the year.
Healthy Heels continues to bring together campus partners committed to student well-being, including Student Wellness, CAPS, the Heels Care Network, and Campus Recreation. Together, we help students connect with care that supports the whole person.
What is a Healthy Heel?
A Healthy Heel is anyone who makes everyday choices to support their own well-being and the well-being of the people around them. That means you (yes, you!) even on the days when it doesn’t feel that way.
Healthy Heels is also Carolina’s campus-wide health and wellness initiative — a collaboration between Student Wellness, Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), Campus Recreation, and the Heels Care Network. They can help you thrive.
Your health matters
A healthy student is better able to focus, learn, and enjoy life at Carolina. That’s why Campus Care works alongside this broad network of wellness support on campus. When you need medical care, don’t wait — reach out and get the help you need.
What Healthy Heels Believes
Healthy Heels’ approach to wellness makes space for the many ways individuals and communities strive for and support each other’s health.
Here’s the philosophy:
- 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. Healthy Heels will 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 Healthy Heels focuses 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. Healthy Heels will 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. Healthy Heels provides 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 You, Too
A health-supportive community only works when people show up for each other. You are a vital part of Carolina’s wellness culture. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Follow Healthy Heels on Instagram at @UNCHealthyHeels and @UNCCampusRec for updates, tips, and community.
- Join wellness initiatives on campus. Keep an eye out for events, programs, and opportunities to connect.
- Tell us what you care about. Email healthyheels@unc.edu with ideas.
Cheers to a great year ahead. We’re glad you’re here.