With school starting, striking a balance between all aspects of life can prove overwhelming. Luckily, there are a plethora of on-campus mental health resources available to students. This Suicide Prevention Month, The Daily Texan compiled five of these resources to explore.
UT Student Government Mental Health Agency frequently tables on Speedway, handing out items such as snacks and stickers. They also worked with Divine Canines to bring therapy dogs on campus for students to relax with.
Founded last semester by psychology junior Morgan Sanford, who now serves as the president, The Bright Stars of Texas is a spirit group focusing on mental health. This semester, the group has held events such as bracelet making on the lawn and handing out tote bags emblazoned with “Mental Health Matters.” While the group’s applications just closed, they will open again in the spring.
Counselors in Academic Residence Program
Available at every school in the University, CARE counselors provide short-term counseling services to students, faculty and staff. Aiding people dealing with things like anxiety, stress and depression, CARE can also refer students to resources outside of the University and within the Austin community if needed.
A department within the Division of Student Affairs, Longhorn Wellness Center has many different options for students. Most are quick online programs, however, they do have other valuable resources such as Nature Rx, a program that locates spots on campus for students to spend time in nature. The program also gives away sleep kits which include lavender oil, an eye mask, earplugs, chamomile tea, a mini-journal and more educational resources.
Housed in the Longhorn Wellness Center and offering a unique way to relieve some stress, the Longhorn SHARE program is peer-driven. SHARE stands for support, healing, active listening, reciprocity and empowerment. All conversations are confidential, unless a peer believes a student is at serious risk. Both one-on-one and group conversations are available and are facilitated by student leaders called SHARE support specialists.
