UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Knowing where to turn for support can make a difference when a student is struggling. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides mental health services for students, along with prevention training and resources to help students, faculty and staff recognize and respond to concerns.
CAPS clinicians provide students with care that’s personal, confidential, and focused on their individual needs. Some offerings include counseling, crisis intervention, workshops, and preventive emotional well-being resources such as Welltrack Boost, Nurture in Nature initiatives, and Life Hack Kits to help students manage stress, strengthen resilience, and build the skills needed to be the best versions of themselves. Students can contact CAPS or visit CAPS Chat to discuss their concerns and determine what type of support may be appropriate for them.
Support also extends beyond students who are seeking care themselves. Through the R.E.A.C.H. initiative, or Responding to Essential Aspects of College Health, CAPS offers training to help student leaders, faculty and staff, and members of the Penn State community recognize signs of distress and respond to students who may need support.
R.E.A.C.H. includes:
- Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Training to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use concerns.
- Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR): Training that teaches participants to recognize warning signs of suicide and respond effectively.
- The Red Folder: A resource that helps recognize, respond to, and refer students experiencing distress at all Penn State campuses.
These resources provide the tools and information needed to have difficult conversations and connect students with appropriate support.
For urgent mental health concerns, the Penn State Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 1-877-229-6400. Students can also text LIONS to 741741 to connect with trained professionals via the Crisis Text Line. The Crisis Line is also available to individuals concerned about a Penn State student’s mental health.
Students, faculty and staff can learn more about CAPS services and resources through the Student Affairs website.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.