Every Feeling Matters: A Safe Space for Southern Uaniversity Students

College can be overwhelming. Between classes, social life, and personal struggles, mental health often gets pushed to the side. But, sophomore Samara Green is working to change that with her organization, Every Feeling Matters. A psychology major with a minor in mass communications from Las Vegas, Nevada, Samara started the organization to give students a space to feel seen, heard, and supported. “I lost my brother when he was 16. He had sickle cell, and losing him broke me,” Samara shared. “Coming into college as a freshman, I knew I wanted to turn my pain into something meaningful. I realized so many students, including myself, struggle with balancing emotions, mental health, and just life in general. I wanted to create a space where people feel supported without judgment. The name says it all—every feeling is valid, and we deserve a space to express them.” 

Samara believes that a space like Every Feeling Matters is crucial, especially at an HBCU like Southern. “We’re all about community here, but mental health isn’t always talked about the way it should be,” she said. She furthermore added, “A lot of us are taught to just push through and be strong, but that doesn’t mean we have to do it alone. This space ensures that students, especially those who feel unheard, have a safe place to process what they’re going through and get support.” 

Since launching, Every Feeling Matters has hosted events, giving students a chance to open up in judgment-free zones. One of their most popular events is Heart to Heart, where students meet up on the rec lawn to talk about whatever’s on their minds. They’ve also held guided meditation sessions, incorporating music to help students relax and reflect. “The impact has been amazing,” Samara said. “People leave these sessions feeling lighter like they’re not carrying everything alone. Some students have even told me it’s the first time they’ve felt safe enough to open up in a long time.” 

If you want to join, it’s simple. Every Feeling Matters is open to everyone, no matter where you are in your mental health journey. “You can follow us on Instagram 

@eeveryfeelingmatters to stay updated on events, or just show up to a Heart to Heart session,” Samara said. “No 

sign-ups, no pressure, just a welcoming space for anyone who needs it. We also have free membership forms that you only have to fill out once. And if you want to be more involved, we’re always looking for people to help lead conversations or bring new event ideas.” 

For students who are struggling and may feel isolated, Samara has some words of encouragement. “First, know that you’re not alone, even if it feels like it. Find an outlet, whether it’s journaling, meditating, 

working out, or talking to someone you trust. If you feel stuck, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. Therapy isn’t just for when things get bad; it’s for maintaining your mental health, too.” She also reminds students to be patient with themselves. “Healing isn’t linear. It’s okay to have bad days—just don’t let them convince you that better days aren’t coming.” At the end of the day, Every Feeling Matters is about more than just meetings and events; it’s a home. “You don’t have to prove anything to be here. You don’t need to have the ‘right words’ or be in a certain mental space. You belong, whether you’re figuring things out, carrying something heavy, or just looking for people who get it. If you’ve been feeling alone, if you’ve been holding things in, if you just need somewhere to exhale, this is your invitation. We see you. We welcome you. And we’re here for you. Always.”