Therapy Dogs sitting in a cart

Stress Free Zone

With the weight of finals looming, it's hard to focus on studying when you're also grappling with the pressure of world events, political tensions, and personal challenges that seem to pile on every day. Come take a break during our Stress Free Zone events! The University community has come together to offer you multiple ways to relax and recharge before the semester ends. Join us for art activities, games, food and a spa day! 

To request disability accommodations, please contact Student Disability Services at (773) 442-4595 or sds@neiu.edu at least 48 hours in advance.


December 3, 2024


Coloring and Cocoa

3:00-5:00 p.m.
El Centro Lobby 

Join our Coloring and Cocoa event with the El Centro team. It's the perfect way to take a break from the stress of finals and relax with some coloring and hot cocoa. We'd love to have you join us for a fun and relaxing time!

Picture Your Potential: Vision Board & Motivational Quotes

10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Career Development
Main Campus, Room B 119

This inspiring guide helps you visualize your goals and stay motivated with uplifting quotes, empowering you to craft the life you envision. Start your journey today!

Food Giveaway

Noon-2:00 p.m.
Main Campus, Cafeteria, Fishbowl

The office of Student Health Services has your back with a variety of foods, snacks and games! This is a space to relax, play some games, and have a snack. Stop by and meet our friendly team!


December 4


Food Giveaway

Noon-2:00 p.m.
Main Campus, Cafeteria, Fishbowl

Day Two of the Student Health Services snack giveaway. We are back with a variety of foods, snacks and games! This is a space to relax, play some games, and have a snack. Stop by and meet our friendly team!

Stress Free Bingo

Noon-4:00 p.m.
Fishbowl
Main Campus, Cafeteria, Fishbowl

Come and win some amazing prizes at the the free bingo. Located in the cafeteria conference room (Fishbowl). Everyone is welcome! 

Pamper Party

1:00-4:00 p.m.
Self-Care Corridor
Main Campus, Building B, Room B 119

  • Sound Bathing at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
  • SPA Therapy at 2 p.m.
  • Massage Padded Chairs from 1-4 p.m.
  • Hot Tea/Cocoa/Coffee from 1-4 p.m.

Dog Therapy

2:00-4:00 p.m.
Self-Care Corridor
Main Campus, Building B, Room B 119

Join us for Canine Cuddles, where you can unwind and de-stress with the comforting presence of friendly therapy dogs. Let their wagging tails and warm cuddles melt away your worries and lift your spirits!

Gratitude and Emotional Wellness Activity

1:00-4:00 p.m.
Self-Care Corridor
Main Campus, Building B, Room B 119

  • Gratitude Jars and Stress Balls 1-4 pm (Supplies & Snacks provided)
  • Dinner and a Survey (Mental Wellness Assessment) Ramen package or Cup of Soup!  1-4 pm (While supplies last/Tablets Provided)

December 5, 2024


Movie Screening

Noon-2:00 p.m.
Main Campus, Pedroso Center, Room B 159 

Join us for a special screening of a powerful film that explores themes of empowerment, consent, and overcoming adversity, perfectly suited for our Stress Free Zone event. This engaging yet thoughtful movie offers positive messages that resonate deeply, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed atmosphere during finals week. Enjoy delicious food and beverages as we come together to reflect and recharge. Don’t miss this opportunity to unwind and be inspired!

Gratitude and Emotional Wellness Activity

Noon-3:00 p.m.
Self-Care Corridor
Main Campus, Building B, Room B 119

  • Gratitude Jar and Journals 12-3 pm (Supplies & Snacks provided)
  • Dinner and a Mental Wellness Assessment. Ten minutes and a hot Cup of Soup!  12-3 pm (Tablets Provided)

Beat the Stress

3:00-4:00 p.m.
Main Campus, Physical Education Complex, Studio A

Take a moment to unwind and enjoy some fun tunes at Dance Break! Join us in P.E. Complex in Studio A for a variety of music and a relaxed atmosphere to help you refresh and recharge.

Wild Wellness/Noticing Nature: Walk & Talk

2:30-3:30 p.m.
Main Campus, University Commons

Warm up with a cozy drink at Hot Drinks on the Go! Meet us in Building B, grab your favorite hot beverage and enjoy a relaxing break as you head outdoors to the University Commons.