October 10 marked World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is an opportunity for all of us to raise awareness of mental health issues and advocate against social stigma. Below are a few resources available on campus for students, staff and faculty.

For supporting students: University Health Services (UHS) has put together a three-page resource guide to help faculty and staff recognize, respond or refer students who may be exhibiting behaviors of concern. Additionally, UHS has an entire web page devoted to keeping faculty and staff aware of resources available when faculty and staff notice students who may be struggling, or experiencing issues and concerns affecting the student’s performance, interactions, or functioning. UHS also links faculty and staff to suicide prevention resources.

For supporting faculty/staff: The Employee Assistance Office (EAO) offers services including personal counseling, workplace consultation, and well-being coaching and training. Faculty and staff may visit the EAO website at https://hr.wisc.edu/employee-assistance-office/. The EAO also partners with LifeMatters, which is another confidential resource for assistance. LifeMatters provides 24/7/365 phone coverage, as well as statewide access to confidential counseling and consultation near your workplace. LifeMatters can be reached by phone at 1-800-634-6433 or on their website at www.mylifematters.com.

For anyone who has been reluctant to begin these crucial conversations, World Mental Health Day is a great reminder that there’s no better time than now.