University of Kentucky launches Color Kentucky Healthy Initiative

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 16, 2025) — In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the University of Kentucky (UK) has introduced the Color Kentucky Healthy Initiative, a partnership aimed at enhancing mental health through creative expression. This initiative is a collaboration between UK HR Health and Wellness and the UK HealthCare Office of Patient Experience.

The Color Kentucky Healthy Initiative encourages collective coloring as a means for employees, students, patients, and visitors to alleviate stress and promote mental well-being. Research indicates that coloring can reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve focus and mindfulness, and enhance relaxation and sleep quality.

Jenni Jinright, manager of the Healthy Kentucky Initiative, stated that the pilot program received positive feedback, prompting an expansion to include the entire campus and the Kentucky community. Jinright emphasized the initiative’s goal to make prioritizing mental health a normalized practice, allowing individuals to engage in creative activities without guilt or shame.

The need for such initiatives is underscored by rising mental health challenges, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and modern societal pressures. Surveys reveal that nearly half of college students experience symptoms of depression or anxiety, while over 75% of U.S. workers report feelings of burnout. This highlights the necessity of open dialogues and supportive community structures for mental health.

In conjunction with the coloring initiative, UK HealthCare’s Office of Health Disparities is organizing a free community event titled Mental Health Matters on May 17, from 3-5 p.m. at The Learning Center. Additionally, UK HR Health and Wellness will host a pop-up event, Balance Break, on May 20, allowing attendees to engage in creative activities such as coloring and yoga.

Throughout the month, the Healthy Kentucky Initiative promotes online QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training, which educates participants on how to recognize warning signs and respond effectively to those in crisis. This training is open to everyone, including students, employees, and community members.

UK’s Office for Student Success provides continuous mental health resources, including TRACS (Triage, Referral, Assistance, and Crisis Support), the Counseling Center, and various outreach programs. The university aims to foster an environment where mental health is prioritized year-round, not just during awareness months.

The Color Kentucky Healthy Initiative will feature large coloring murals of Kentucky landmarks across the campus and community, encouraging collaboration and creativity among individuals. Jody Ensman, well-being manager of UK HR Health and Wellness, highlighted the initiative’s role in promoting mindfulness and relaxation while fostering community engagement.

As the University of Kentucky continues to prioritize mental health, it invites all community members to participate in these activities, reinforcing the importance of mental well-being in a supportive and creative environment. Together, the university aims to cultivate a culture of care, creativity, and connection, reminding everyone that mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being.