Need someone to listen to or simply want to know you’re not alone? UHD’s Counseling Services is here for you with a variety of resources and upcoming events to support you, fellow Gator.
First, it is important to remember that mental health is just as valuable as physical well-being. And there is no shame in admitting when help is needed. Sometimes a person’s greatest strength comes from recognizing that they cannot do it all alone. Reaching out, whether to a friend, a therapist or a support group, is a sign of courage, not weakness.
Mental Health Matters Summit and Resource Fair
On April 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., UHD will host a resource fair featuring various community assets that specialize in mental health services. Some of the local resources that will be in attendance are the Parris Foundation, DePelchin Children’s Center, St. Joseph House, and more. This event is open to all students, staff and faculty.
The Mental Health Matters Summit will follow on April 3, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The summit aims to foster open conversations about mental well-being, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health struggles, and providing resources for those in need and for those who want to help. This summit will bring together experts, advocates and individuals with lived experiences to share insights, offer support and encourage a community of understanding.
Visit the UHD Counseling Services page for more information about both events.
UHD Counseling Services
For year-round support, UHD’s Division of Student Success and Student Life offers counseling services to students. College life can be overwhelming due to academic pressures, financial stress and personal struggles. This is why access to counseling services is critical to helping students manage stress, anxiety and depression while improving their overall well-being.
After speaking with Director of Counseling Services Naomi Berger-Perez, she emphasized the importance of the GatorSUPPORT Groups and how these support groups are peer-to-peer with counselor support and are meant to be “collaborative, non-threatening” meetups.
From arts and crafts with the Crafty Gators to spending time with a registered therapy dog, Major, at their designated meet-up spot, there is something for all Gators. Even the Gators in Recovery Group is not just for students recovering from substance abuse, but for all kinds of life challenges, including stress, trauma, and other personal struggles. Again, these groups are meant to be a place of comfort and community, with no judgment.
UHD Counseling is also open to collaborating with the Gator community about other ways to serve the campus’ counseling needs. If you have a request or an idea for collaboration, Berger-Perez suggests getting in touch with their department via their online intake form on their website. This is the same online intake form you can use to participate in any of the support groups.
Remember, you are not alone.
Visit UHD’s Counseling Services here.
