World Mental Health Day at BU
The following was sent to all members of the Boston University Community on Thursday, October 1, 2024 from Dr. Judy Platt, MD, Chief Health Officer and Executive Director of Student Health Services.
Dear Members of our Boston University Community,
October 10 marks World Mental Health Day – an international call to raise awareness, destigmatize mental health, and strengthen community access to mental health support.
At this moment, there are tremendous stressors and uncertainties in our individual lives and global community that are deeply impacting our mental health. These realities require us, more than ever, to prioritize care for ourselves and one another. At the Chief Health Office, the mental health of our students, staff, and faculty is front of mind. Please read on to learn about the events, training opportunities, and resources available to you this month, and beyond.
World Mental Health Day at BU
We will honor World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10 by providing students, staff, and faculty with free mental health screenings, resource fairs, and opportunities to reduce stigma and contribute to a community of care. This is a notable expansion of “National Depression Screening Day” which has been an important part of BU’s prevention efforts for nearly 20 years. Events will be held on the Charles River and Medical campuses, and online. No registration is required. Learn more about what is planned for World Mental Health Day at BU.
Overdose Prevention Training
We can all support the health and safety of our campus community by learning how to identify an overdose, access and administer nasal naloxone, and describe policies that protect those who seek help. BU’s Overdose Prevention Training is free and open to all students, staff, and faculty. Learn more and register.
Supporting Students in Distress: Terriers Connect Training
Each member of our community has the power to support students’ mental health, no matter your role on campus. This training, led by Student Health Services, teaches students, staff, and faculty how to recognize signs of distress, support students, and refer to BU mental health and wellbeing resources. Learn more and register.
Mental Health Resources for the BU Community
The Chief Health Office, and our campus partners, offer many resources to support the mental health of students, staff, and faculty.
For Students: Student Health Services (SHS) provides free and confidential mental health services including short-term therapy, support groups, medication management and more. Survivor services are available for any student who has experienced interpersonal violence or other trauma. Peer support options can also be accessed through SHS’ Togetherall and All Ears programs. For a broader list of wellbeing resources, explore this resource tool provided by the BU Student Wellbeing Office.
For Faculty & Staff: The Faculty & Staff Assistance Office (FSAO) offers free and confidential help for personal, work-related, and family concerns. Licensed staff provide mental health assessments, short-term counseling, referrals to mental healthcare, training, and identity-based resources to promote mental wellbeing. Services are available to BU employees and their household family members. BU Employee Wellness also curates resources to enhance wellbeing including workshops, programs, and health information.
Thank you for your continued commitment to fostering a culture of care and support within our BU community.
In health,
Judy T. Platt, MD (she/her)
Chief Health Officer and Executive Director
Student Health Services
Boston University