Focus on Mental Health and Well-Being
As the fall semester progresses, students are encouraged to prioritize both their academic pursuits and personal wellness. According to the university’s press release, success in studies is closely intertwined with proper self-care, which includes adequate rest, nutritious meals, and connections within the Niner community.
Wellness is described as a multifaceted concept that encompasses emotional management, relationship building, intellectual growth, environmental awareness, financial navigation, career preparation, and physical health.
Available Campus Resources
A variety of campus services are designed to support students in achieving holistic well-being. The Christine F. Price Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers in-person counseling, telehealth consultations, crisis assistance, group therapy, and resources for self-help. CAPS is available to guide students in accessing off-campus referrals and ongoing care.
The university’s recreational programs provide numerous opportunities for fitness and wellness, including yoga, stress-reduction exercises, and club sports that promote community engagement.
The Center for Wellness Promotion offers education aimed at enhancing healthy habits and informed decision-making regarding well-being. Topics covered include the prevention of interpersonal violence, substance use awareness, recovery support, and sexual health.
Student Health, situated within the Joyce Davis Waddell Center, provides a range of primary medical services, including laboratory work, pharmacy services, disease prevention, nutrition consultations, psychiatric referrals, and screening.
Training and Support Programs
Training sessions for Mental Health First Aid and QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) are open to students, faculty, and staff, focusing on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Additionally, the Green Dot program trains community members to intervene in situations of interpersonal violence, such as sexual assault and domestic violence.
The Health Education Leadership and Prevention Certificate offers nonacademic credit for engaging in national prevention training related to mental health and medical emergencies. The Help Seeking Protocol ensures that students reporting substance-related emergencies are protected from disciplinary actions.
Crisis Assistance and Support Services
Students facing acute mental health issues can access 24/7 support through ProtoCall, which collaborates with CAPS. For after-hours assistance, students can reach CAPS at 704-687-0311, and follow prompts to speak with a counselor.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides round-the-clock access to crisis counselors, reachable by texting or chatting 988. Those in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis should contact local authorities or the UNC Charlotte Police at 704-687-2200.
Additional Campus Support Services
The Student Assistance and Support Services department is available for one-on-one meetings, addressing various challenges that may affect students’ academic or personal success. The Jamil Niner Student Pantry supplies perishable and nonperishable food items, allowing registered students to shop weekly.
The Office of Accessibility and Accommodation helps students with documented disabilities, including mental health conditions, to create reasonable accommodations. Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX addresses issues of discrimination and misconduct.
Niner Finances offers guidance on managing finances, while the University Ombuds acts as a confidential resource for resolving conflicts. Additionally, Atkins Library provides a Self-Care Collection, featuring loanable items to assist students dealing with stress.
Online Resources for Students
Niner Nation Cares serves as a resource hub, connecting students with essential services and support tools. Basic Needs Services helps address food and housing insecurities, as well as legal and financial assistance.
The online Care and Concern referral system allows individuals to report concerns to the appropriate university office, ensuring students receive the necessary support.
The university encourages feedback on how to enhance student support services. Students are invited to keep this information handy for personal use or to share with peers.
Source: UNC Charlotte
