The University of Alabama at Birmingham is taking significant steps to address the mental health needs of its student community. With the growing demand for mental health services, UAB offers a multitude of support programs, providing students with additional resources and a sense of community.
In 2021, it was estimated that nearly one in four adults age 18 or older (57.8 million people) had any mental illness, or AMI, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and approximately 33.7 percent of young adults ages 18 to 25 had AMI. Recognizing this challenge, UAB’s Student Counseling Services now offers online group support programs facilitated by experienced mental health professionals. These virtual sessions allow students to share their experiences, support one another and build connections.
Angela Stowe, Ph.D., director of UAB Student Counseling Services, emphasizes the importance of expanding mental health resources.
“The demands on students can be overwhelming, and we are dedicated to providing the resources and support they need to succeed,” Stowe said. “This will allow us to offer even more comprehensive mental health services to our diverse student population through group support programs.”
UAB remains dedicated to supporting students’ mental health, ensuring they have the tools and community they need to thrive during their college journey.For students learning remotely, UAB’s Student Health Services and Student Counseling Services offer distance-counseling services, clinical case management, and telehealth appointments with licensed mental health and medical providers. Students can easily book appointments online or by phone without needing a referral from a primary care provider.
The UAB Cares suicide prevention initiative aims to raise awareness, provide resources and foster a supportive environment for students facing mental health challenges, finding the help they need and ensuring they know they are important and matter. It includes resources for suicide education, prevention, intervention, response, follow-up and postvention.
Students and employees at UAB are also committed to supporting one another. Students can learn how to help one another and earn badges through the UAB Cares Mental Health Advocate Badging program. UAB Mental Health Advocates play a vital role in encouraging others to seek support when needed. And by proudly displaying a Mental Health Advocate Badge, you can inspire others to prioritize well-being in their own lives and contribute to a culture that promotes mental health for all.
UAB recognizes the importance of accessible mental health support. Students can explore additional resources such as the TAO Self-Help Platform for Students, Togetherall 24-7 peer to peer chat platform, Student Outreach, Blazer Kitchen at Hill Student Center, Blazer Kitchen at 1613 11th Ave. South and Kognito Educational Platform.
UAB remains dedicated to supporting its students’ mental health, ensuring they have the tools and community they need to thrive during their college journey.
For more information about UAB’s mental health services, visit UAB Student Counseling Services.