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DKG Practice/Program

of the well-being of their members.
Betty-Ann Heggie (2021), Canadian speaker, author, and mentor, reminds us that “we are being
forced to think about things differently” now. And in a post-pandemic world, what are some of our biggest
lifesavers?—Connecting with and service for others. Thinking of the importance of DKG, what better
opportunity to connect and serve others.

Definition of Terms
Mental wellness is a fundamental component of overall well-being. It encompasses our emotional,
psychological, and social well-being. When our mental health is in good shape, we can effectively cope
with stress, maintain healthy relationships, and experience a sense of fulfillment and happiness in life.
Mental and physical health are closely interconnected. Poor mental health can contribute to physical
health problems, such as increased risk of chronic conditions, weakened immune system, and impaired
sleep patterns. Conversely, good mental health promotes better physical health outcomes and overall
vitality.

Actions: What Can We Do to Promote Wellness in DKG?
• Chapters and state organizations could establish support groups. The Virtual Teachers’
Lounge—established by Dr. Karen Gross, Sakina Magruder, Pat Neal (all District of Columbia
State Organization members), and Dr. Ed Wang—was formed during the pandemic. This site
involves regularly scheduled Zoom sessions that are free and open to all educators, including all
DKG members. Educators gather from all over the world to gain support in a non-threatening
environment, bringing problem situations to the facilitators. The problems are discussed along
with possible solutions.
• Chapters could implement a project within their own community. Karen Gross (DC State
Organization) implemented the Kindness Rocks Project in Massachusetts (Gross, 2023), where
students painted rocks with messages of encouragement, and Kathy Zwanzig (Kentucky State
Organization) implemented Ladybug Rocks Project in Indiana. Rocks were placed throughout the
community to bring vitality and connection during COVID-19.
• We can meet DKG members’ need to be welcomed with kindness and support. We can ask
members how we can help and actively listen to their responses. We can support our members
by acting in response to their needs and interests while acknowledging chapter members’
accomplishments.
• We can create safe and inclusive environments that respect diverse and equitable opinions and
opportunities, thereby creating accessibility. We create connections when we address the importance
of support groups, monitor our own actions to be inclusive and encouraging, and recognize the
accomplishments of all members.
• State organizations and chapters can create Mental Wellness Committees that provide
programs to build awareness and support their members. Imagine if every chapter could have
at least one program a year on mental-health support!
Educating all through workshops about mental health
and destigmatizing the myths around mental health
are essential. Programs also could promote awareness
by including strategies for stress reduction, relaxation,
healthy lifestyle, and time management. Breath focus,
meditation, yoga practice, and leadership have common
elements. DKG leaders who reflect on their self-care,
listen to the needs of their bodies, and take breaks during

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