This year, UNM Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) hosts an entire week dedicated to help support students during Mental Health Week.

Mental Health Week runs Monday, Nov.15 to Friday, Nov. 19. Rather than focusing on one day, SHAC is extending the event for an entire week in order to provide more opportunities for students to participate.

SHAC is offering mental health screenings and providers will be availble to go over screening answers with students. This consists of drop-in Zoom hours for students to ask questions.

“If not for yourself, learning about mental health issues and supports can be important in supporting someone you care about. And like good dental hygiene, good mental health hygiene helps you in the long run,” said Margaret White, SHAC healthcare provider.

SHAC will be encouraging students to use one of their serivices, Therapy Assistance Online (TAO). TAO helps assist students, staff and faculty with mental health and wellness. White says TAO should be used in conjunction with conventional therapy and is meant to be used as a guide for patients. This easily accessible service can be used at any time or place on desktop, tablet or smartphone.

“Student Health and Counseling is dedicated to a mission of enhancing the wellbeing of students through access to the highest quality health care, health education and advocacy,” said Dr. James Wilterding, SHAC executive director. “SHAC is nationally recognized for its integration of mental health and medical services in which the health of both individuals and the campus community are approached in a holistic manner.”