Announcing New Supports

​Dear Students,

A positive change I've noticed during my 12 years as a professor at UT is that students have become more comfortable talking about their struggles and to see struggle as a normal part of life. So more ask for help when they need it. That ensures we more readily can find ways to address students' needs.Students have asked for more support in the domain of mental health. I'm pleased to announce three important new steps aimed at better supporting the mental health of CNS students:

• We are creating a new CNS Student Wellness Center in PAI 3.04. The center will be in place next semester and allow students to access non-academic and counselor in academic residence (CARE) services in one area. Plus, it will be a space for other campus resources to connect with our students. Overall, the center will provide a more therapeutic setting for students seeking wellness services here in CNS.
• We are in the process of adding a third CNS CARE counselor to our team. CARE counselors are licensed mental health professionals who work jointly in UT's Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC) and CNS to provide access to mental health support for students who are struggling emotionally and/or academically. Learn more about our CARE program.
• We are launching a new CNS Student Mental Health Ambassadors program. Ambassadors will promote healthy habits, reduce stigma and create a culture of care in CNS. Thank you to all who have stepped forward with an interest in supporting a strong culture of wellness and caring for mental health in CNS as an ambassador.