My name is Bree Swenson, and I am a soccer player and wrestler at the University of Dubuque. I have always been a multi-sport athlete and love the challenges and growth that comes with that. My major is Nursing. I have always enjoyed exercising and learning about healthy eating. It wasn’t until I became a wrestler that I began to understand the importance of healthy habits and how physical and mental health can mean something completely different to everyone. Being a student-athlete can make it so easy to compare yourself, your success, your body, your playing time, and your habits to others. I have realized that we need to celebrate our differences and strengths, and everyone needs a physical and mental plan that works for them. I want to become a nurse and then go on to be a Physician Assistant with a focus on nutrition and mental health to help others figure out a nutrition plan that works for them as I believe that is a huge part of your physical health. I think it’s important to remember that everyone deals with mental health differently and has their way of coping with it. I also feel like we are seeing a constant growth in awareness of mental health, but I know there’s still a huge need for resources for those struggling. Information on how to find the resources to help people struggling is a big part of being able to work through depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health needs. Physical and emotional health truly affects everything in your life; from your relationships, and how you treat others, to how you speak to yourself. I enjoy being an advocate to support others in their journey in any way I can, and I look forward to constantly learning ways to help myself and others improve their mental and physical health.
