Supporting Student Mental Health: Guidance for All Instructional Staff

For anyone teaching at the college level these days, student mental health is an increasing concern. Our students are facing significant stressors, both in their personal lives and in watching local, national, and world events, and all too often find themselves struggling. This affects their ability to learn the course content we share with them, and to make the most of their time in college. At their worst, these mental health challenges can lead to serious consequences, including suicide (rates are increasing among college students) and self-harming behaviors, including drug and alcohol abuse.

Faculty are not trained therapists, and we should not act as if we are. But there are things we can do, and should do, to support our students in their time of need. This can include knowing the resources to which we can direct students, but can also include ways to communicate with students in a supportive manner as they face these challenges. As we discussed in the session, faculty can become important links connecting students to the mental health (and other) resources available to them. 

Facilitated by Dr. Oscar Alcaine and Dr. Sharon Carney, Staff Psychologists, CAPS

Date: Thursday, August 15th, 2024

Time: 3:00-4:15 PM