Wichita State University (WSU) recognizes the contributions of its CARE Team and Student Outreach and Support (SOS) in promoting mental health on campus. These teams are part of the Suspenders4Hope initiative, which highlights mental health advocates and aims to inspire community support for mental wellness.
The CARE Team and SOS focus on providing comprehensive support to students, staff, and faculty. They emphasize holistic wellness by addressing mental, academic, physical, and emotional health. The teams engage in open dialogues with students about their mental well-being, connecting them with essential resources available both on campus and in the community.
Katie Davidson, director of SOS, states that their approach prioritizes compassion and education. They offer training and awareness campaigns to equip the campus community with the skills to identify signs of distress and respond appropriately. Collaboration with faculty, staff, and student organizations is crucial for normalizing discussions around mental health and reducing stigma. By advocating for early interventions, they aim to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking help.
Proactive support is essential during challenging times, as it can significantly reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The CARE Team’s efforts have led to an increase in students self-reporting their mental health needs and faculty referring students to support services. This change indicates a growing awareness and willingness to seek help within the campus community.
The CARE Team encourages WSU members to utilize the yellow CARE folder provided at the start of the academic year. This resource outlines steps for identifying and assisting students in distress, reinforcing the importance of being a supportive presence on campus. Simple acts of kindness, such as listening and showing care, can have a substantial impact on someone’s mental health journey.
Suspenders4Hope serves as a reminder of the commitment to mental health and suicide prevention. It empowers the CARE Team and SOS to encourage a culture of empathy and support. The campaign helps foster a sense of community where students are reminded that they are not alone and that help is available.
Through Suspenders4Hope, the CARE Team and SOS have integrated mental health check-ins and educational initiatives into their routine support services. These efforts aim to reinforce the message that reaching out for help is both acceptable and encouraged, which can lead to improved student retention and well-being. By creating a compassionate community, WSU seeks to ensure that every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Wichita State University, the only urban public research university in Kansas, serves over 23,000 students from diverse backgrounds. It is recognized for its innovative approaches to education and commitment to student success, particularly in fields related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The university strives to provide accessible mental health resources, highlighting the importance of mental wellness as an integral part of academic achievement and personal development.
