As Colorado Mesa University (CMU) kicks off its spring semester, a new initiative is taking center stage to support the mental health and well-being of its students. The ‘Mavs Matter’ program, funded by a grant from the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is here to help those most at risk.
Addressing Student Mental Health Needs
With students juggling coursework and personal pressures, mental health services at CMU have never been more important. Anna Lee Walker, Director of Advocacy and Health at CMU, explained how the university is responding to growing mental health needs.
“All of our mental health services are out of the Student Wellness Center, where we offer outpatient individual therapy and group therapy in addition to peer support and collaboration with the integrated medical services through Community Hospital,” Walker said. The Student Wellness Center is central to the university’s ongoing effort to ensure students receive the help they need, especially when mental health challenges arise.
It’s not just about providing therapy; the focus is on creating a supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking help. The integration of medical services makes it easier for students to access the care they need, quickly and effectively.
The Mavs Matter Program: Focused Support for At-Risk Students
The ‘Mavs Matter’ program is a proactive step in supporting students who may be struggling with mental health issues. This initiative is designed specifically for students who are at risk of suicide or other mental health crises.
“What we really strive to do with the Mavs Matter program is to better serve those students that are more at risk for suicide or any kind of mental health crisis,” Walker said. With this targeted approach, CMU can intervene before a crisis escalates, providing the necessary support for students in a timely and effective manner.
The program offers a range of services, including a crisis clinician who can be assigned to a specific department as well as improved crisis response protocols. This ensures that if a student faces an emergency, there are clear, immediate steps to take, and the right professionals are involved.
The Road Ahead for Mavs Matter
As CMU continues to roll out the program, there’s potential for growth. Walker mentioned that the university may expand Mavs Matter by adding more wellness workshops and seminars that can help students manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges.
In addition, faculty and staff will receive more training, particularly focused on suicide prevention and how to best assist students facing mental health crises. This is a big part of CMU’s strategy to create a safe, supportive environment for all students.
Why This Matters to CMU Students
For many students, the college experience is a time of self-discovery and growth, but it can also come with significant emotional and mental health challenges. Programs like Mavs Matter are vital for helping students navigate these challenges, ensuring they have access to resources that can make all the difference.
As the program grows, it will hopefully offer more opportunities for students to engage with mental health services in a way that feels accessible and beneficial. Whether it’s through therapy, workshops, or a crisis response system, the focus is on providing a comprehensive support system for every student at CMU.
