Early Bird

Resources to manage your mental health

The Counseling Center and Health Center at Auraria offer programs, tools and referrals for faculty, staff and students.

By Lindsey Coulter

March 5, 2019

Modern life is full of potential stressors, but resources abound on the Metropolitan State University of Denver campus to help students and employees alike manage the ups and downs.

Counseling Center

University faculty and staff members can take advantage of a one-time mental-health consultation and referral at the Counseling Center. Referral resources often include the free Colorado State Employee Assistance Program, with an office at 1525 Sherman St. C-SEAP typically offers short-term counseling, referrals and other resources including training and organizational development. The Counseling Center encourages faculty and staff to use their health insurance for private referrals as well.

“We also host free national awareness screening days throughout the year that are open to the entire University community and the general public,” said Gail Bruce-Sanford, Ph.D., executive director of the Counseling Center. “At these events, participants can consult with one of our mental-health professionals and obtain information for further assessment and treatment as appropriate.”

These events are held annually and help participants address:

• Eating disorders (February)
• Alcohol awareness and marijuana (April)
• Depression (October)

Faculty and staff are welcome to browse the self-help resources on the Counseling Center website, including links to American Psychological Association and National Institute of Mental Health resources providing a plethora of helpful information. Bruce-Sanford also recommends apps and personal-growth videos that can support psychological growth, self-care, meditation and relaxation.

For more information, check out the Counseling Center FAQs page or contact staff.

Health Center at Auraria

Faculty and staff may also access care and connect with resources at the Health Center at Auraria. The Health Center offers a variety of wellness workshops and activities designed to help the brain and the body healthily manage stress. Employees can also visit the Health Center to receive treatment and counseling referrals for eating, gambling, sexual, substance and tobacco addictions.

To learn more, visit the Health Center website or contact staff.