We live in an interesting time, and with every day bringing new reasons to stress, we no longer need to wonder if people are lying when they say they’re fine. We know they’re not fine, and neither are we.

Sooner or later we all reach a breaking point, and who doesn’t want an audience for that breakdown?

That being said, crying in the middle of Fauver Stadium might not be the vibe. If it is for you, go ahead! Make that breakdown a spectacle! However, if you’re looking for a more controlled population, here are the top five places for a semi-public breakdown.

5: Rush Rhees Library

While Rush Rhees has many great spots to breakdown in front of a small number of people, it’s so overdone that people probably won’t even notice you’re crying. They’re probably having a mental breakdown themselves. I mean, have you ever been in there during finals week? Try to find someone who isn’t crying. 

4: Your Zoom Room

While likely half those cold, uncaring, faceless black squares are hiding equally apathetic and distant people , there’ve got to be at least a few people paying attention. Instructors are always begging you to turn your camera on, so show them what’s going on behind the screen. On the bright side, they probably won’t ask anymore. 

3: University Health Services (UHS)

“My favorite is walking from UHS to Sue B. I cry everytime. UHS really does it for me,” first-year student Lindsey Szalach said.

On the verge of a mental breakdown? UHS can help push you over that edge with mandatory isolation. Before you’re removed from all human contact for God knows how long, go out with a bang! 

2: Any First-Year Floor Lounge

Your floor lounge presents the perfect opportunity for a semi-public breakdown. While not many people will see you, you can almost guarantee the unlucky soul who does will know you personally. Maybe they’ll even join you.

1: Eastman Quad

Nothing says “I’m not okay” like lying face down in the middle of the quad. With all the new grass being planted, you don’t even need a blanket. The quad can be pretty populated on a warm day, but you’ll probably just look like a sunbather from a distance. A totally normal, okay person sunbathing in Western New York. You’re doing great!

Remember there’s no wrong place to have a mental breakdown. Scream alone in your dorm! Cry in line at Starbucks! Throw your books across a classroom! Catharsis is real and it is great.



Best places to have a semi-public breakdown on campus

With a class size of about 1,400 students representing 45 different US states and 27 countries worldwide, URochester’s Class of 2030 has officially arrived and is settling in.  Read More

Best places to have a semi-public breakdown on campus

The only thing more shocking than the excellent quality of their music is the rapidity of its release; “Cool World” was released less than two years ago, and last October the band unveiled a collaborative effort with guitarist Hayden Pedigo. Read More

Best places to have a semi-public breakdown on campus

For this year’s deaf culture night, the Red Wings wore a white uniform with blue sleeves, and an orange font with “Rochester” spelt out in ASL finger spelling. This is similar to years past, but the colors of the jerseys change every year. Read More