Supporting student mental health at UC

Between late-night study sessions, new friendships, part-time jobs and the pressure of figuring out “what’s next,”  it’s no surprise that stress and mental health challenges can pop up along the way. The good news? The University of Cincinnati's mental health services are here to support you through every step of your college journey.

At the UC, mental health isn’t just a buzzword; it’s built into campus life. Whether you’re searching for quick mental health tips for college students, want to learn more about self-care for college students, or need professional counseling, UC has resources designed to meet you where you are.

At a glance, UC mental health services include:

• One-on-one and group counseling (CAPS)
• 24/7 crisis support hotline
• Peer wellness programs
• Campus recreation and mindfulness activities
• Self-help and stress management tools
• Free subscription to the Calm app for UC students, faculty and staff

College is a time of growth and opportunity — but it’s also a period of big transitions. You might be living away from home for the first time, juggling work and classes or adjusting to a brand-new community. Research shows that college students nationwide experience higher rates of stress, anxiety and depression, and that’s why UC makes student wellness a priority.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as going to class, showing up for a lab or studying for a final. If you’re looking for support, UC has an entire network of college student mental health resources designed just for Bearcats.

Your main hub for UC mental health support is Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS). CAPS provides:

• One-on-one counseling sessions: Short-term, individual therapy sessions
• Group therapy sessions: Connect with peers experiencing similar challenges
• Crisis support: For students in urgent need, including after-hours support
• Self-help resources: Access counseling even when you can’t make it to campus

If you’re unsure where to start, CAPS is a great first step.

Not sure what happens when you contact CAPS? You’ll usually start with a confidential consultation appointment. They’ll listen, guide you, and connect you with the right type of care, even if you’re not sure exactly what kind of support you need.

In addition to CAPS, UC offers additional outlets to help you manage stress and stay grounded:

• Health & Wellness services: A one-stop holistic hub for both physical and emotional well-being.
• Bearcats Support Network: Sometimes the best help comes from fellow students who understand exactly what you’re going through — that’s what peer support groups offer.
• Student Wellness Center: Find wellness programs organized by peer educators and awareness events on campus.
• Campus Recreation Center: Exercise is one of the most effective mental health tools out there.
• Crisis resources: For those in immediate crisis, CAPS offers a mental health crisis hotline at 513-556-0648, which is available after-hours. You can also call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline anytime.

Self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or elaborate routines. It can simply mean finding things that make you feel refreshed and recharged. At UC, that can look like:

• Reading in a quiet spot at Langsam Library
• Joining a mindfulness workshop through CAPS
• Taking a fitness class or swimming a few laps at the Campus Rec Center
• Catching a sunset view from Nippert Stadium’s upper deck
• Saying no to one extra activity so you can breathe

Remember: Self-care for college students looks different for everyone. The key is finding what works for you and making it a regular part of your schedule to help you succeed academically and personally.

In addition to UC’s mental health services and resources, small habits can make a big difference in your daily routine. Try some of these:

• Move daily: A walk across campus or through Burnet Woods can clear your head.
• Eat balanced meals: Fueling your body helps fuel your brain.
• Stay connected: Call home, hang out with friends or join a peer support group when things feel heavy.
• Rest when you can: It might seem tempting to pull all-nighters, but good rest is a game-changer.
• Ask for help early: UC mental health services are here for prevention, not just crisis.
• Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no to events or commitments when you need downtime.

If you’re ready to reach out, here are your starting points: 

• UC Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
• UC Student Wellness Center
• UC Crisis Support Line: 513-556-0648
• UC Suicide Prevention
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

You don’t have to navigate challenges alone. From UC student mental health resources to UC stress management resources, UC is committed to supporting every Bearcat, every step of the way.

Balancing academics, friendships, work and personal growth isn’t always easy, but help is right on campus. Whether you need one-on-one counseling, a peer group to lean on or everyday tools for stress management, UC mental health services are here to guide you.

College is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Take care of yourself, reach out when you need support and remember: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Every Bearcat deserves to feel supported.