The University of Colorado Denver offers a comprehensive range of mental health and wellness resources designed to support students, faculty, and staff in maintaining emotional well-being, managing stress, and addressing mental health challenges. These services reflect a commitment to fostering a supportive campus environment that prioritizes mental health awareness, early intervention, and holistic care. From free counseling sessions and 24/7 crisis support to trauma-informed care and peer-based assistance programs, the university provides accessible, evidence-based mental health services tailored to meet diverse needs.
Students at CU Denver have access to on-campus mental health centers such as the Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center, which offers confidential counseling, mental health screenings, and workshops on topics including anxiety reduction, emotional regulation, and resilience building. Additionally, the university partners with external organizations and digital platforms to expand mental health care access, ensuring students can receive support in various formats—whether through in-person therapy, telehealth services, or mobile apps.
Beyond traditional therapeutic interventions, CU Denver emphasizes the role of physical health, social connections, and basic needs in promoting mental wellness. Resources such as food pantries, financial aid guidance, and fitness programs are integrated into the university’s mental health strategy, recognizing the interconnected nature of well-being. By addressing mental health as a multifaceted issue that extends beyond therapy sessions, the university fosters a culture of awareness, acceptance, and proactive self-care.
This article explores the mental health services and initiatives available at CU Denver, focusing on their evidence-based approaches, accessibility features, and contributions to student well-being. It also highlights the university’s efforts to reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking behavior, and provide continuous support through workshops, training, and community engagement programs.
Mental Health Services and Counseling Resources
CU Denver provides a range of mental health services to support students in navigating emotional and psychological challenges. The Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center serves as a central hub for mental health care, offering free and confidential counseling sessions to students. These sessions are conducted by licensed professionals and cover a wide array of concerns, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The center also offers mental health screenings to help students identify potential issues early and access appropriate care.
For students requiring immediate support, the university partners with the TELUS Health app to provide 24/7 access to the Lifeworks Student Support Program. This digital platform allows students to connect with mental health professionals for virtual counseling sessions at any time. Additionally, the Auraria Health Center delivers both mental health and medical services, including transgender care, reproductive health, and psychological evaluations. Students without insurance can access care at reduced rates, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent them from receiving essential mental health treatment.
Peer-based mental health support is also available through the university’s Active Minds Chapter, a student-led initiative aimed at reducing stigma and promoting open conversations about mental health. The chapter organizes awareness campaigns, educational workshops, and peer-to-peer support groups, creating a safe space for students to share experiences and seek encouragement. Furthermore, the university offers free online training programs such as Mental Health First Aid, equipping students, faculty, and staff with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health crises effectively.
Crisis Support and Emergency Mental Health Resources
In times of acute distress, CU Denver ensures that students have access to immediate crisis support through various emergency services. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 nationwide and provides confidential assistance for individuals experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. Additionally, the university offers a free, 24/7 helpline through the TELUS Health app, connecting students with trained counselors regardless of their location or ability to pay. For LGBTQ+ students in crisis, the Trevor Project provides suicide prevention services accessible via text or phone call.
For in-person emergency assistance, students can reach out to the CU Denver CARES Team, which is designed to respond to concerns about a student’s well-being. If a student or someone they know is exhibiting signs of distress or potential harm, concerned individuals can submit a report through the CARES Team to initiate a coordinated response. This team works to connect individuals with appropriate campus and community resources, ensuring that students receive timely and compassionate care.
Financial and Basic Needs Support as Mental Health Promoters
Research has consistently shown that financial stress and food insecurity can significantly impact mental health. Recognizing this, CU Denver offers a variety of resources to address these underlying factors. The Milo’s Market pantry provides free food and hygiene items to students without requiring any personal information, reducing the stigma associated with seeking basic needs assistance. Located on the third floor of the Salazar Student Wellness Center, Milo’s Market is open during the academic year from Monday to Friday between noon and 6 p.m.
In addition to food support, the university offers financial wellness programs to help students manage financial stress. These services include budgeting guidance, debt management counseling, and financial literacy workshops. By addressing financial challenges, CU Denver aims to reduce the psychological burden associated with economic instability, supporting students in maintaining mental well-being throughout their academic journey.
Physical Health and Wellness Integration
Physical activity and overall wellness play a crucial role in mental health, and CU Denver promotes an active lifestyle through its wellness center. The Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center provides students with access to group fitness classes, personal training, and recreational facilities such as a rock-climbing wall and lap pool. Participation in these activities has been linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, reinforcing the university’s holistic approach to well-being.
The university also emphasizes the importance of regular movement and healthy living through wellness workshops and educational campaigns. Students are encouraged to engage in physical activity not only for fitness but also as a tool for emotional regulation and stress reduction. By integrating mental and physical health services, CU Denver supports a comprehensive model of care that addresses the mind-body connection.
Social and Community-Based Mental Health Initiatives
Social connections and a sense of belonging are vital components of mental health, and CU Denver fosters these through its extensive network of student organizations and identity-based communities. With over 100 student groups, the university offers diverse opportunities for students to connect with peers who share similar interests, backgrounds, or identities. These groups include the Black Students Union, Hillel at Auraria, and the Vietnamese Student Association, among many others. Participation in these communities can help reduce feelings of isolation and promote emotional resilience.
For students who may be experiencing interpersonal conflicts or navigating challenging university policies, the Ombuds Office provides free, confidential mediation services. This office assists students in resolving issues related to grades, workplace conditions, and policy disputes without initiating formal or legal processes. By offering a neutral space for conflict resolution, the Ombuds Office contributes to a supportive campus environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being.
Mental Health Awareness and Education Programs
CU Denver actively promotes mental health awareness through educational initiatives and training programs. During Mental Health Awareness Month, the university hosts events, workshops, and discussions aimed at increasing understanding of mental health conditions and encouraging help-seeking behavior. These programs often include topics such as stress management, emotional regulation, and trauma-informed care, equipping students with practical tools to enhance their well-being.
The university also offers free online courses such as “You Can Help a Friend,” which teaches students how to support peers who may be struggling with mental health challenges. For those interested in more intensive training, the Lynx Connected suicide prevention program is available to students, faculty, and staff. These educational efforts contribute to a campus culture that prioritizes empathy, early intervention, and mental health literacy.
Conclusion
The University of Colorado Denver demonstrates a strong commitment to mental health through a multifaceted approach that includes counseling services, crisis support, basic needs assistance, and wellness programs. By addressing mental health as an interconnected aspect of overall well-being, the university ensures that students have access to a wide range of resources tailored to their individual needs. Through peer-based support initiatives, community engagement, and educational programs, CU Denver fosters an environment where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized.
While the university offers extensive mental health services, it is important for students to recognize that seeking help is a proactive and courageous step toward well-being. By utilizing the available resources and engaging in mental health awareness efforts, students can build resilience, manage stress, and cultivate a supportive network that contributes to long-term emotional health.