Campus News

Student Health Services is proud to host Mental Health Awareness Month in May

Students are invited to join SHOP and CAPS for a series of campus-wide activities in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. This is a great opportunity to discover practical self-care strategies, learn how to support a friend in need, and engage with the campus community through events focused on holistic wellness.

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This May, Student Health Outreach & Promotion (SHOP) and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), part of Student Health Services, are hosting a series of events in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. 

This national observance aims to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in overall well-being, provide resources to support individuals and communities in need, and bring people together each year to foster understanding, reduce stigma, and advocate for accessible, compassionate care.

Students are invited to engage in a variety of campus-wide activities focused on mental health and wellness. Learn about support services, discover ways to help a friend in need, and explore strategies to care for your own well-being. Information is available on the Mental Health Month Calendar.

Student programs, workshops, and events include:

Let’s Talk | Various times, virtual or in person
Need to talk? We’re here to listen! Drop in for a FREE, confidential chat with a CAPS counselor for support, advice, and information—no appointment needed! This drop-in service offers students a chance to speak with a counselor virtually via Zoom or in person.

Meet the Campus Mobile Crisis Team | May 1, 3–5 p.m. at the Porter College Quad
Drop by to meet the team at the Rave Ready event. Learn more about the services they offer, and connect in a welcoming space. Enjoy some treats and take the opportunity to get familiar with your campus resources. 

Mental Health and Money with Slug Cents | May 6, 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Hahn Student Services
Finances can really affect your mental health. Come join Slug Cents and SHOP to learn about financial wellness, how to make a budget and stick to it, and self-compassion around money matters. Chipotle provided to students with registration! 

Stress less by CAPS Peer Educators | May 7, 12:00–1:30 p.m. at the Cowell Student Health Center
Learn about common student stress experiences, how to recognize the signs, and what to consider when developing strategies to manage stress.

Yoga for Mind and Body Wellness | May 12, 11:30 a.m. at the Cowell Student Health Center
Join CARE for a trauma-informed yoga practice where you can enjoy slow movements met with guided meditation. The choices you make with your body are honored in this space. Beginners are welcome!

Mental Health Awareness Trivia Night | May 12, 6–8 p.m. at 11th Hour Coffee downtown
The DSAS Leadership and Involvement Team is hosting a special Trivia Night to help you unwind and stay grounded. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with a social hour, followed by mental health-themed trivia at 7 p.m.

First-Gen Well-being | May 12, 7–8:30 p.m. at the Porter I Lounge
Join SHOP in collaboration with Porter College to be in community with other first-gen students and learn how you can thrive at UCSC. Dinner and raffle prizes will be available!

Queer Joy Crafting Time (Communi-tea) | May 20, 3–5 p.m. at the Cantú
Drop by the Cantú Cabin to be in community with SHOP. Crafting supplies will be provided. There will be a Mental Health Awareness Month prize raffle!

Springtime Sip and Social | May 21, 3–5 p.m. at Stevenson Courtyard
Join SHOP, Stevenson, and other campus partners to learn more about mental health resources and get free boba! 

Spotify Podcast by CAPS Peer Educators: Centering student-led conversations on all things mental health.

Learn more and check out the full schedule of events.

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Last modified: Apr 30, 2026