Student's mental and physical health resources on campus

<p>Photo of a lightpost on campus that has a sign for &quot;Unboxed&quot; with the link to iu.edu/takecare.</p>

Photo of a lightpost on campus that has a sign for "Unboxed" with the link to iu.edu/takecare.

With a commitment to student success, IU Indianapolis offers a variety of programs aimed toward student’s mental and physical health. From online to in-person resources, there's an initiative tailored to unique needs. 

For mental health services, students have the access to services right at their fingertips. TimelyCare is a virtual health platform available to all Indiana University students at no cost. Services include on-demand support for all hours of the day, scheduled counseling, health coaching and self-care coaching.

To access TimelyCare, students can log in with their IU credentials via their website, or the mobile app, available on both IOS and android. 

For those who favor an in-person connection when it comes to counseling, the IU Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available for students. Located on the second floor of Lockefield Village at 980 Indiana Ave., CAPS operates from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students can find a variety of clinical mental health services and support such as counseling, drop-in workshops, interpersonal violence and victim advocacy. Prior to making an appointment, students must complete an initial consultation. 

There are many ways to begin the CAPS process. To get started, students can call CAPS at 317-274-2548, email capsindy@iu.edu or simply walk into the office from the available times posted. From there, students will be sent paperwork via email to submit. Upon completion, an initial consultation will be scheduled where a brief assessment will determine the treatment that is best suited for any situation. The initial consultation cost is free, removing financial barriers. Other services within CAPS are either free or have minimal costs. Students can check out more information on fees at CAPS service fees

Plenty of student organizations regarding mental health also exist on campus. Ethnic Mental Wellness Association (EMWA) is a student-led organization dedicated to bringing mental health awareness topics within ethnic communities to the forefront. Sarah Raees, a junior studying health service management, established the organization in February 2024. Raees created EMWA after witnessing how challenges, like racial discrimination, can impact ethnic communities into holding poor mental health. EMWA is here to create an inclusive safe space for anyone who wants to discuss their mental health issues on campus. 

“I know when we talk about mental health it's usually more of a broad topic. I really think that ethnic communities deserve this specific focus,” said Raees. “I think a lot of us have a shared struggle of mental health, so through discussing this shared struggle it could be a really good way to bring people together.” 

EMWA regularly updates their Instagram page on meetings and events they are having. Though relatively new, there are plenty of events to come. At the moment, there is no fee to join and anyone is welcome to attend any events the organization hosts. 

“Everyone is welcome to join. Whether you’re from here or not from here, you deserve to be here,” said Raees. “ I know we have the name ethnic with a focus to educate on our struggles, but I want everyone to be here because it is also a great place to learn.” 

Physical health is another crucial component for student success. Campus Health is a notable resource for those who are feeling unwell or have sustained injuries. Located on the first floor of Lockefield Village at 980 Indiana Ave., students can get a wide range of health services. 

Campus Health services address a variety of medical issues, from common ailments like sinus infections, earaches, colds, and flu to more serious concerns like sprains, joint pain, back pain, sports injuries, abrasions, lacerations and more. If students need a physical exam for school or personal use, Campus Health can provide one too. Students are welcomed to call in to speak with any team member with questions regarding their needs. 

Medication is also available at Campus Health. Students can get access to free birth control while doctors can create prescriptions needed for a treatment plan. Accepted insurances include Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Humana, IU Health, Sagamore and United Healthcare. Students are encouraged to bring an insurance card to their appointments.

To make an appointment, students can either call 317-274-8214 or walk in to speak with a member about scheduling an appointment. Campus Health works on a first-come first serve basis, so the availability for an appointment is different for everyone.

For students looking to improve physical well-being, there are multiple options for Campus Recreation at IU Indianapolis. By paying a $50 fee, students can gain access to the Campus Center Rec, IU Natatorium, NIFS and all intramural sports and club sports programs. For those living on-campus, the fee is covered through the housing and living expenses.

To activate a membership, students need to fill out the waiver form at rec.indianapolis.iu.edu or visit in person to speak with a member of the recreation staff. For information on specific locations and hours, visit Campus Rec Facilities to learn more. 

As college students, many may find themselves in financial difficulty while navigating their education. Paws’ Pantry is a leading hand in helping food security on campus by offering free healthy food to those who need it. Those with access not only include IU Indianapolis students, but also staff and faculty. Prior to visiting, students must make an appointment with Paws’ Pantry to be registered. By logging in with their IU credentials on One.IU, students can simply look up Paws’ Pantry to complete the registration form. If an appointment time doesn’t work, emailing jagsfood@iu.edu is an alternative option. A one-time emergency pre-packaged food bag is available to those who haven’t registered, while registered students can visit the facility once a week. 

There are resources for everything on campus. From mild to severe problems, there are many programs aimed for many health goals. 

Melanie Contreras is a freshman at IUI double majoring in English and journalism with a minor in legal studies. Outside of writing she enjoys learning languages and going for walks. 

Powered by SNworks Solutions by The State News
All Content © 2024 The Campus Citizen, IUPUI