MSUM resources for student mental health
Dean of Students Kara Gravley-Stack shared the following message with students via official student email on Sept. 19, 2023. If you notice someone is struggling, please help to support them. You can have a tremendous impact on another person by checking in with them and letting them know that you care. Refer them to the resources listed below or contact the MSUM Care Team and we will reach out to them.
Sometimes it can be hard to see the bright side when you are feeling down, overwhelmed, anxious, or sad. This is a very natural response to stress students often feel at this time of year. We know that students are juggling new courses, work schedules, basic needs for housing and food, and other responsibilities. Please know that you are not alone and that it is OK to ask for help. MSUM offers many resources to support you and your mental health.
Reach out and utilize any of these resources that are available to you:
- MSUM Counseling Services offers licensed mental health counselors for students to see in person or online. They understand the issues students face and offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space to talk through your concerns.
- Dragons Mental Health is a new student organization focused on peers providing support and resources to one another. To learn more or get involved, look for them in Dragon Central.
- Togetherall is an online mental health community that is a 24/7, free, and confidential resource available to all students. Create an account and check out a variety of self-assessments, self-paced courses, and communities in which you can engage with your peers who share common concerns and interests.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for individuals who are struggling or thinking of suicide. You can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.orgfor support.
Mental health is connected to physical health. It’s important to take time for self-care, especially when you feel overwhelmed with deadlines and time commitments. Simple things you can do to support your mental health include:
- Spend some time outside – Take a walk, observe nature, breathe in the fresh air.
- Eat well – Do not skip meals when you need energy.
- Limit caffeine intake – Energy drinks may give you an initial burst of activity, but most people also experience a crash when the effects wear off. Try drinking water instead.
- Pay attention to your sleep – Everyone struggles to maintain a positive mood when running on too little sleep.
- Hang out with other people – You have opportunities to meet new people in your residence hall, in classes, through campus employment, or by getting involved in MSUM student organizations or intramurals.
Finally, if someone you care about at MSUM is struggling right now, please help to support them. You can have a tremendous, positive impact on another person by checking in with them and letting them know that you care. Refer them to the resources listed above or contact the MSUM Care Team and we will reach out to them.