This fall, the University of Illinois System will introduce an online mental health training program accessible to all faculty, staff, and students. The initiative is part of the university's commitment to fostering a culture of care and promoting mental health and well-being on its campuses.
The training aims to provide foundational knowledge that will assist participants in recognizing signs of mental distress in themselves and others. It encourages responding with empathy and connecting with available resources within the university community. Participation in this program is voluntary.
At the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), this training complements existing efforts informed by data from initiatives such as the Healthy Minds Study and Mental Health First Aid. These efforts are part of UIC's goal to become a Health Promoting University, where well-being is integrated into all campus life aspects.
Chancellor Miranda's student-success priority aligns with this work, acknowledging that students perform better academically when their mental health and well-being are supported.
Additional details about the program will be shared closer to its launch. Meanwhile, there is encouragement for raising awareness about this opportunity and its potential positive impact on students' and colleagues' well-being.
"Thank you for your continued support," stated Karen J. Colley, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Illinois Chicago.