10/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/07/2024 06:36
In recognizing National Depression Awareness Month in October, The University of Akron's (UA) Counseling and Testing Center (CTC) invites the campus to a day of self-care and mental health resources on National Depression Screening Day, Thursday, Oct. 10. There will be a variety of events from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Jean Hower Taber Student Union in collaboration with Zips Activities Board (ZAB).
"We encourage everyone to join us and foster conversations around mental health," said Dr. Natacha Keramidas, a staff psychologist and outreach coordinator for the CTC. "Raising awareness begins with empathy and understanding. If you notice changes in friends, coworkers or classmates, reach out-a simple 'How are you doing?' can open the door for someone to seek help."
Recognizing depression can be challenging, especially when subtle signs go unnoticed. While many are aware of symptoms like prolonged sadness or social withdrawal, other signs often go ignored, including:
Faculty, staff and students are invited to attend a free in-person Mental Health First Aid training in two parts on Friday, Oct. 11, and Friday, Oct. 18, from 8 a.m. to noon.
This training, hosted by the CTC and Dean of Students Office, teaches how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. It focuses on the unique experiences and needs of college students and gives attendees the skills needed to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.
Attendees must attend both half-day sessions to become certified in Mental Health First Aid.
To register, contact Dr. Natacha Keramidas at [email protected] or Greg Luli at [email protected]. Space is limited and there is no cost to attend.
The CTC facilitates group counseling for students to share their emotions and learn from the experiences everyone brings into the sessions. Several types of groups meet throughout the semester, including ones focused on mindfulness, strengthening relationships, managing anxiety and support for underrepresented students and people of color.
More information about group counseling and a schedule for the latest sessions can be found here.
The CTC is open for drop-in intake sessions in Simmons Hall, Room 306, on Monday-Friday from 1-3:30 p.m., and from 9-11 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
For more information, contact the CTC at 330-972-7082 or visit Simmons Hall, Room 306, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The CTC provides free and confidential culturally responsive psychological services for UA students through group counseling, individual counseling and psychotherapy. Online and web-based trainings and assessments are also available.
Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or [email protected].