UNL Launches Free Mental Health Push for 25,000 Husker Students

LINCOLN, Neb. — University of Nebraska-Lincoln unveiled its Suicide Prevention Program, dubbed 'An Evidence-based Approach to Preventing Student Suicide at UNL,' to tackle rising mental health crises among its estimated 25,000 enrolled students, including those at high risk for suicide and behavioral health disorders. The initiative builds infrastructure for identifying and intervening with at-risk students through sustainable policies, clear treatment pathways and culturally appropriate mental health promotion. Campus partners will train over 4,000 faculty, staff and students in suicide prevention, expand depression, alcohol and drug misuse screenings, and connect students to resources.

Key components include annual Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) training for campus providers, with 30 trained over the grant period, and a multi-media campaign to promote help-seeking and reduce mental health stigma. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers free psychologists and licensed counselors at the University Health Center, reachable 24/7 at 402-472-7450, with emergencies routed to UNL Police at 402-472-2222. Programs like Counselors-in-Residence embed mental health professionals in residence halls for on-demand student support, alongside stress management, resiliency training and substance use disorder services.

The push aligns with broader Nebraska efforts, including Give to Lincoln Day on May 26, where donors fuel the UNL Student Care and Well-Being Fund for year-round mental health resources. Faculty are urged to spot signs of stress, depression, anxiety and eating disorders — affecting at least one in five college students — and direct them to CAPS or Services for Students with Disabilities at 402-472-3787. UNL's grant-funded expansions, including faculty training and global mental health models, position Lincoln as a leader in student well-being amid statewide concerns.