Your Wellbeing Matters: Access our Virtual Self-Care Room

STEM-focused education teaches us to value evidence, rigour, and logic. Mental health and well-being are deeply grounded in science. Yet, when it comes to actually practicing self-care, it can feel surprisingly elusive.

For many students and professionals in STEM, self-care often gets sidelined. Our work and learning environments are fast-paced, high-pressure, and deeply rooted in productivity culture. The way self-care is portrayed publicly – think bubble baths and Instagrammable retreats – can feel disconnected from the lived experiences of those navigating deadlines, research funding stress, academic hierarchies, and long hours in the lab or in front of a screen.

But here’s the truth: real self-care goes much deeper. It’s not about indulging ourselves, it’s about sustaining our wellbeing. It's the ongoing work of noticing what drains us, understanding our stress responses, and building practices that actually support our nervous systems.

And for those who’ve experienced trauma, including gender-based violence or harassment, self-care isn’t just beneficial – it’s necessary. 

That’s why the Courage to Act Foundation created our virtual Self-Care Room—a digital sanctuary designed with STEM professionals and students in mind. Inspired by the #MeToo Movement and the aesthetics of STEM-focused workspaces, this resource is more than a mental health checklist. It’s a quiet, intentional corner of the internet where you can pause, reflect, and reconnect.

Click through different images in the room to explore our curated collection of self-care tools: from reflective writing prompts and interactive games to soothing podcasts and meditative resources. Whether you're processing a tough experience or simply trying to avoid burnout, we invite you to take what you need when you need it.

Because here’s the thing: if you're working toward gender equity in STEM, your presence matters. Your voice matters. Your well-being is not a luxury; it’s the foundation on which you help shape a more equitable world. 

We hope this room reminds you that rest is not a reward. It’s part of the revolution.