NDB dedicates a day to focus on the students of NDB and their mental health and wellness, typically in February. This wellness day gives us the opportunity to take a break amidst the busy schedules that we have. While this new tradition is a positive initiative, the timing could definitely improve. Moving Wellness Wednesday to March would be much more effective for both students and staffulty.

One of the primary reasons for this argument is the fact that in February, NDB students were already given some sort of vacation from school. Intersession is a week-long “break” for many students. Though there are some responsibilities throughout that week, there are no classes. Wellness Wednesday follows Intersession, right after students return from their break, making the day feel redundant due to only being back for a few days.

March is arguably the longest month of the school year, with zero days off for students or staffulty. After the break in February, students have a full month before there are any breaks from classes; by mid-March, many students feel burnt out. Moving the wellness day can help prevent students from feeling this way, providing a much-needed mental health day.

Having the wellness day in March would also help NDB have a more balanced school schedule. For many, since February is the shortest month of the year, it feels manageable, especially since they have a week off. Lots of students feel that March is a long and tiring month. In the middle of the second semester, motivation is lacking, so having that break can balance out the schedule, therefore lessening the stress.

While Wellness Wednesday is a great idea that helps many NDB students, the timing makes it underappreciated. Having Wellness Day take place in March would enhance an already excellent concept.