World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 each year, and this year’s theme emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace. Purdue University has made substantial efforts over the past six years to enhance and prioritize the health and wellness of its community, including mental health initiatives. The university continues to develop and refine resources, tools, and programs centered on the five pillars of the Healthy Boiler Program: behavioral health, financial wellness, physical health, social wellness, and work-life integration.
The behavioral health pillar is dedicated to raising awareness and sharing resources to assist faculty and staff with mental health challenges. At both Purdue and Purdue Global, the objective is to alleviate the stress often associated with seeking mental health support, encouraging employees to go Beyond the Surface to access help. This support is facilitated through the university’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which connects benefits-eligible employees and their dependents with free, confidential counseling provided by trained behavioral health professionals.
These counseling services, available both in-person and virtually, offer a safe and judgment-free space for individuals to discuss their issues. Initiating the process is as simple as making a phone call to a caring professional who is prepared to assist with any concern.
Once an employee connects with their campus’s EAP provider, they may also be referred to the Center for Healthy Living (CHL) for ongoing behavioral health support if necessary. However, Purdue Global employees can access EAP services through HealthAdvocate but are not eligible for services at the CHL and do not have access to the Healthy Boiler Program.
To support faculty and staff, a Mental Health Resources webpage has been made available, featuring various resources that align with the behavioral health pillar of the Healthy Boiler Program and information regarding Purdue’s health plan coverage for mental health and substance abuse.
For students, faculty and staff can direct them to additional behavioral health resources. The United Healthcare Student Resources (UHCSR), which provides medical coverage for students, has 292 in-network mental health providers within Tippecanoe County, and students can access a list of these providers. Furthermore, students covered by the UHCSR insurance plan have access to HealthiestYou, a service offering virtual mental health care, all at no cost.
Key resources for students include the Office of the Dean of Students and Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS).