A simple way to support both the mental health of students and University suicide prevention efforts is to include a brief statement on your course syllabus. This is a way to promote help-seeking behaviors and demonstrates that instructors care about students holistically, including their overall well-being. See also: Mental Health on the Syllabus from INSIDE HIGHER ED. This informative article talks about encouraging professors to put information about mental health services on their syllabi.
Below are options of statements that can be customized for use in your classes:
Option 1: This version is designed for students new to UNC Charlotte
It is common for college students to experience challenges that may interfere with academic success such as academic stress, sleep problems, juggling responsibilities, life events, substance misuse concerns, relationship concerns, or feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, or depression. If you or a friend is struggling, we strongly encourage you to seek support. Helpful, effective resources are available on campus at no additional cost.
- If you are struggling academically with this class, please visit me during office hours or contact me by email at xxxxxx@uncc.edu
- Meet with your academic advisor if you are struggling academically in multiple classes, unsure whether you are making the most of your time at UNC Charlotte, or unsure what academic resources are available at UNC Charlotte.
- Visit the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) website at caps.charlotte.edu for information about the broad range of confidential on-campus mental health services, online health assessments, hours, and additional information.
- Call CAPS at (704) 687-0311 if interested in scheduling an appointment with a counselor. After-hours crisis support is also available through this phone number.
- Contact the Center Wellness Promotion at (704) 687-7407, by email at wellness@uncc.edu or visit the website at wellness.charlotte.edu for more information on how to develop healthy attitudes and behaviors as it relates to relationships, mental health, alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs and sexual health.
Option 2: Focus on mental health services
It is common for college students to experience challenges that may interfere with academic success such as academic stress, sleep problems, juggling responsibilities, life events, substance misuse concerns, relationship concerns, or feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, or depression. If you or a friend is struggling, we strongly encourage you to seek support. Helpful, effective resources are available on campus at no additional cost.
- Visit the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) website at caps.charlotte.edu for information about the broad range of confidential on-campus mental health services, online health assessments, hours, and additional information.
- Call CAPS at (704) 687-0311 if interested in scheduling an appointment with a counselor. After-hours crisis support is also available through this phone number.
- Contact the Center Wellness Promotion at (704) 687-7407, by email at wellness@charlotte.edu or visit the website at wellness.charlotte.edu for more information on how to develop healthy attitudes and behaviors as it relates to relationships, mental health, alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs and sexual health.
Option 3: Space conscious statement
- Mental health concerns or stressful events may reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities or diminish academic performance. Services are available to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus via the Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) website at caps.charlotte.edu.