The poster for Project Self-Compassion hangs in Hardin Administration building (photo by Hannah V. Johnson).

Students in the School of Social Work hung a poster in the Hardin Administration building to promote self-love.

The poster, located on the first floor, reads “I AM…” in large letters, with space for students to add words of self-appreciation.

Using one of the four provided permanent markers hanging below the poster, students wrote different responses such as compassionate, kind and brave.

Scout Harrell, a graduate social work major from Seattle, said this is the project’s first year of implementation.

“It’s going to help us work on being kinder to ourselves and making sure that we’re taking the time to be compassionate not just to other people, but to ourselves,” Harrell said.

The project started with a class discussion in advanced social work practice methods taught by Dr. Alan J. Lipps, associate professor for social work.

The course discussion was a reflection following a thesis assignment and classwork. The students expressed their frustration by verbally putting themselves down.

“We started talking about how we needed to give each other confidence and give ourselves a boost of energy,” Harrell said.

Harrell suggested the poster during the course discussion, and recommended using the poster to gather participation from all students.

Lipps said the idea to self compassion is to treat yourself like a friend.

“A big problem with disorders like depression and anxiety have to do with people thinking very critically of themselves,” Lipps said.

Harrell said the project may return next year with a potential expansion.