Mental health screenings are being conducted voluntarily on incoming UGA freshmen. Hope other schools follow suit https://www.11alive.com/article/news/education/uga-to-offer-screening-of-freshmen-for-mental-health-issues/85-33fe8f5e-1a52-489e-9051-31d3d6215931
Is this a “screening” or an info session? Unclear. I would vehemently oppose any mandatory screening, of course, but this is voluntary. I would skip the screening part and give kids info on what stresses lie ahead and how to handle them. I would also want to know whether the school offers adequate mental health support, either on campus or via referrals out. Any screening would seem to be an effort to shift responsibility from the school to the student. And there is a right to privacy to preserve.
First line of the article says it. They will offer “voluntary mental health screenings” at sign in day. Remove the stigma and offer the help say one to someone who might be struggling and you don’t know.
I think this is brilliant. Just brilliant.
Exactly, @privatebanker . Yes, as said in the OP, this is voluntary. And its unlikely the school would offer screenings without a follow-up referral plan in place. Lets see this as a positive opportunity- no need to be suspicious of their motives. JMO.
Do you really think students will do this voluntarily? I really don’t.
Looks like a terrific idea. Research on this shows that kids do well when they talk with peers and when seeking care isn’t stigmatized. My guess is that this program will continue to evolve and become more effective over time, and this is a good start.