Need to Talk?
The University Chaplains are available to talk confidentially with anyone who would benefit from a listening ear. You do not need to belong to a religious tradition to speak with a Chaplain. To connect with a chaplain, please contactspiritual.life@northwestern.edu.
Why Talk to a University Chaplain?
LONELINESS & HOMESICKNESS
Finding community and making friends can be a challenge. Chaplains are here - not only to listen to how this adjustment has been for you – but also to help you think through strategies for finding community here on campus.
RELATIONSHIP ISSUES
Tensions with family about your major, difficulties communicating with roommates, social media pressures, trouble in friend groups, navigating dating situations–these are all the sorts of conversations that chaplains regularly have with students dealing with interpersonal dynamics.
SEXUALITY/GENDER
Questions of becoming sexually active, exploring sexual and gender identities, and coping with sexual assault may be discussed with a college chaplain in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental setting.
MEANING & PURPOSE
Tensions with family about your major, difficulties communicating with roommates, social media pressures, trouble in friend groups, navigating dating situations–these are all the sorts of conversations that chaplains regularly have with students dealing with interpersonal dynamics. E-mail: Learn more spiritual.life@northwestern.edu
CELEBRATING THE WHOLE YOU
A chaplain is thrilled to hear about what’s going right in your world and to cheer you on. We’re a nonjudgmental presence when you’re trying to figure things out, and it’s OK to humble brag about yourself too!
QUESTIONS ABOUT SPIRITUALITY & RELIGION
Exploring the spiritual dimensions of our humanity can be a wonderful resource on the journey of life. It’s also totally normal to doubt or wonder if some of what you were taught might be toxic or unhealthy. Cults and unhealthy religious groups love to target college students, so please come talk to us about anything you’re curious or concerned about.
GRIEF & DYING
The death of a loved one, prolonged illness, accidents, and other unexpected life events can be very painful experiences. Fear of our own mortality and questions about an afterlife are normal after such difficult experiences. Chaplains are a helpful resource to process all of your feelings and help you find ways to begin to heal from your loss.
GUILT/SHAME
Many college students struggle with feelings of pressure, shame, or authenticity surrounding their childhood community, family, or religious practice. Chaplains may be a resource for helping you think about how to integrate (or not) your family’s beliefs as you develop your own personal and/or religious identity.