On this episode of the Speaking of … College of Charleston podcast, Luke Shirley ’18 shares how depression in college shaped him and inspired him to build Quest, a Charleston-based nonprofit helping students feel less alone through community and peer support
A Crossroads in College
Shirley was an Honors College student majoring in religious studies when he found himself struggling to go to class.
“I almost dropped out because, for the first time, I didn’t want to learn, didn’t even want to hang out with friends,” he recalls. “I isolated a lot. It felt like I had this really heavy, dark cloud over me, and I couldn’t motivate myself. I got to a point where I was like, I don’t think school was for me.”
Quest and Quest on Campus: A student-led mental fitness program
Shirley created Quest and Quest on Campus to push back against that isolation. Through this student-led program at the College of Charleston and The Citadel, students build mental fitness through peer support, free workshops and wellness activities and events like surfing and yoga.
A student participant came up with the term “mental fitness,” which Shirley describes as the ability to embrace the day with optimism, exercise emotional resilience and develop a willingness to accept challenges as opportunities.
“The idea is that our mind and bodies are the same, right? If I broke my arm, it’s not a shameful thing to say I’m hurt. But if I’m struggling with anxiety, or if I’m like feeling really low, why do I hide that?” says Shirley.
Sound of Mind: Quest’s flagship fundraiser in Charleston
Like any nonprofit, Quest depends on donors and sponsors in the community to provide necessary support. Quest’s biggest annual fundraiser is Sound of Mind, a music festival Shirley describes as a night where music, powerful stories and real community come together to support mental fitness.
Listen to this episode now on all major podcast platforms, or watch on YouTube!
FAQ
What is Quest?
Quest is a Charleston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on mental fitness, emotional well-being and community connection. Learn more at questinrecovery.org
What is Quest on Campus?
Quest on Campus is Quest’s student-led mental health program at the College of Charleston and The Citadel, with free workshops and wellness activities designed to help students feel supported by peers. Learn more on the questinrecovery.org website.
How can students get involved?
Students can connect through Quest on Campus events and sign-up options shared through Quest on Campus’ Instagram account.
Where else can I find resources on campus?
The College of Charleston Office of Student Wellness and Well-being connects students to wellness tools, programs and campus partners.
Where can I get immediate help?
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For support, call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7). In South Carolina, you can also call Mobile Crisis at 833.364.2274 for 24/7/365 community-based crisis response.
