FEAP February 2025 Newsletter
Happy Valentine's Day - FEAP Celebrates Black History Month
February has arrived with grocery store aisles awash in red, pink, and white—shelves brimming with heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, bouquets of fresh roses, and the promise of love in all its forms. While Valentine’s Day may serve as the centerpiece, love is more than a date on the calendar or a display of grand gestures. At its core, love is a daily practice—one that begins within.
This month, we invite you to explore love beyond tradition, embracing both self-love and the love we extend to others in ways that feel authentic and sustainable. True love—whether romantic, platonic, or self-directed—is not about sacrifice or depletion but about nourishment. It thrives where kindness meets boundaries, where care is given freely but never at the expense of well-being.
As you move through February, consider what love looks like in your life. Perhaps it’s offering yourself grace on difficult days, strengthening connections with those who uplift you, or making space for rest without guilt. However love manifests for you, know that you deserve it in its healthiest, most affirming form.
At FEAP, we’re here to support you on this journey. Whether you’re navigating relationships, seeking balance, or simply looking for ways to care for yourself more deeply, our no-cost, confidential services are designed to help you thrive. Let this month be a celebration of love that enriches, restores, and empowers—not just on the 14th, but every day.
Yours in Well-Being,
Beth Danehy, Director, FEAP
Tip of the Month
Read this Month’s Tip: Science of Willpower
Willpower is a key factor in achieving success, often surpassing intelligence or experience. It contributes to greater happiness, better health, and more fulfilling relationships. The encouraging news is that willpower can be strengthened through intentional practices.
Group Events
Rest, Reset, and Restore (In-Person)
February 18, 4:00-5:30 p.m.
The Human Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) manages stress and recovery. Modern life often disrupts this balance, causing Nervous System Dysregulation (NSD) linked to chronic disease, anxiety, and depression. Learn to activate your Restore Branch at our R-3 Drop-in sessions. Co-sponsored by FEAP and Population Health.
Caregiver Connection: Supporting Independence
6-Part Educational Series for Supporting Loved Ones with Alzheimer's and Age-Related Conditions
February 20, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
This session equips caregivers with strategies to help individuals living with dementia participate in daily activities. It focuses on providing appropriate support, balancing safety with independence, and setting realistic expectations. By promoting autonomy and improving quality of life, caregivers can foster a sense of purpose and dignity in their loved ones.
Spring Poetry Workshop: Narrative Repair, Love, and Ross Gay
12-Week Poetry Course - Limited Spots Available
February 21, 4:30 - 6:15
In a supportive, low-pressure environment, you’ll have the opportunity to find your voice, share your work, and engage in meaningful conversations about love, identity, and gratitude.
Join Shane Moran on this journey of creative expression—where words become a space for discovery, transformation, and radical self-acceptance!
Kultivate Konnection
Monthly, 60-minute drop-in session
March 6, 11:30 a.m.
Drop in on the first Thursday of each month for a 60-minute emotional wellness break for those who identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color (BIPOC). Join us in a space that facilitates healing of race-based trauma through a connection with colleagues, shared experiences, and the cultivation of a sense of authenticity and kinship. Share and learn strategies for challenges you are facing and feel uplifted in a welcoming and soulful environment.
Upcoming Webinars
Strategies to Strengthen Willpower to Help You Achieve Your Goals
February 20, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
Join this webinar to learn effective strategies to enhance your own willpower as well as discover how “I will power”, “I won’t power,” and “I want power” can help you reach your goals.
This webinar is based on Kelly McGonigal’s groundbreaking book, The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It.
EQ in Action: Thriving at Work and Strengthening Relationships
March 6, 12:00 - 1:00
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a critical skill for navigating workplace dynamics, managing stress, and building strong professional relationships.
In this interactive session, you’ll explore the core principles of EQ, understand the science behind emotional responses, and gain practical strategies to enhance communication and collaboration at work. Through real-world scenarios and guided discussion, you’ll leave with actionable techniques to strengthen your EQ and thrive in your role.
Black History Month
Discover insightful resources on the FEAP website dedicated to Black History Month. The page offers guidance on discussing Black history, emphasizing mental health history and resources. It also highlights notable Black pioneers in medicine and psychology.
Couples Support
Happy Valentine's Day! FEAP offers confidential consultations to help couples improve communication and strengthen their relationships. To learn more, visit our Relationship Support page.
FEAP is available for individual consultation and short term, focused counseling for a variety of personal issues and common concerns—including helping you discover best steps for finding long-term personalized care.
Contact FEAP
FEAP (8am-5pm M-F): 434-243-2643 (uvafeap.com)
Crisis & Care Coordinator (8am-5pm M-F): 434-995-8305 (uvafeap.com)
FEAP After-Hours Support: 434-243-2643