Counseling and Psychological Services hosted free mental wellness screenings in Newcomb Hall Tuesday afternoon to assess students for various psychological issues and traumas.
CAPS partners with Peer Health Educators and the Office of Health Promotion to host the outreach event once each semester.
“I think this program is always pertinent,” CAPS assistant director Dr. Leonard Carter said. “There are always people hurting and suffering who don’t know where to turn.”
Students were given a screening test before sitting down with CAPS professionals to discuss any concerns they might have. Students were then guided to resources and information if any concerns came up during the meeting.
The screenings can help students identify problems they were completely unaware of, said Peer Health Educator Meredith Steen, a fourth-year College student.
“College students often ignore problems related to stress and think it’s normal, but sometimes it’s not normal,” Steen said. “It’s great to have the resource right here at Newcomb to be able to help [students] and help others in the U.Va. community.”
Students were also encouraged to find information related to friends who may be dealing with issues, especially in light of recent tragedies in the University community, Carter said.
—compiled by Abby Meredith