UK emphasizes mental health support during May awareness month
LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky is highlighting mental health resources and programs available to students, faculty and staff during Mental Health Awareness Month, which runs throughout May with the theme "More Good Days, Together."
Mental Health America, which founded the observance in 1949, selected this year's theme to encourage people to prioritize connection, seek support and foster open conversations around mental health. The message reflects the reality that a "good day" looks different for everyone and emphasizes the importance of community support in achieving mental wellness.
UK's observance included Wildcat Check-In Week in April, when the university's Human Resources Health and Wellness division partnered with POWER: Prevention, Outreach and Wellness Education Resources and UK HealthCare's Healthy Kentucky Initiative to focus on mental health and suicide prevention. During the week, employees and students participated in mental health check-ins, creative writing exercises, suicide prevention training and wellness activities. The week concluded with a ceremony honoring those lost to suicide.
"We all have times when we feel overwhelmed and depleted," said Rhonda Henry, mental health therapist with UK HR Health and Wellness. "Our team of therapists have collaborative, strengths-based approaches to help employees and their families in neutral, supportive spaces to process the challenge they are facing."
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10-34 in Kentucky, according to UK HealthCare. To address this crisis, the university offers multiple resources including QPR Suicide Prevention Training, mental health counseling through therapists, the Bend, Don't Break resilience series, and digital tools and apps. Students can also access the HR Health and Wellness website for comprehensive mental health information.
For those in immediate crisis, anyone can call, text or chat 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or contact UK's Counseling Center after hours at 859-257-8701.