UNLV was recognized this week as a top university for its comprehensive approach to student mental health programming. The university was one of just 30 awarded the JedCampus seal from the Jed Foundation, a national non-profit that advocates suicide prevention and mental health programs for college students.

The seal is part of the foundation's JedCampus program, which assesses how well a university works collaboratively beyond its counseling centers to approach mental health services for students. This includes counseling and suicide prevention programs, health and life skills programs, and educational outreach for faculty, staff and students. The seal is valid for two years.

"UNLV is honored to be included in the first class of schools recognized by the Jed Foundation for our commitment to the emotional well-being of our students," said Jamie Davidson, UNLV associate vice president for student wellness. "College is a time of increased pressure when many students experience symptoms of emotional health issues. We take pride in working collaboratively at UNLV to decrease the stigma of seeking help through outreach and education, and by providing accessible and high quality mental services."

As part of the process to earn the seal, universities took a voluntary, online self-assessment reviewing their campus mental health and suicide prevention programming. The Jed Foundation then compared the school's responses to the recommended practices outlined in The Comprehensive Approach to Mental Health Promotion and Suicide Prevention on College and University Campuses developed by The Jed Foundation and Suicide Prevention Resource Center.

In addition to earning the JedCampus Seal, UNLV's Student Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) recently earned full accreditation from the International Association of Counseling Services. Accreditation certifies that CAPS has achieved the highest standards of excellence in providing comprehensive mental health services to campus.

UNLV also offers community mental health and counseling services. The Practice is a training and research clinic open to the public for a low-cost fee based on a sliding scale. Faculty and students offer counseling services for mental health issues including anxiety, depression, grief and loss. Counselors also specialize in problem gambling treatment and child behavioral issues.

The UNLV Center for Individual, Couple and Family Counseling treats individuals, couples and families seeking help with emotional issues including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts and violent emotional outbursts, and issues brought on by unemployment. The clinic also offers services at a low cost and sliding scale based on income.

Leading higher education and mental health professional organizations including the American College Counseling Association, American College Health Association, National Council on Community Behavioral Healthcare, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, among others, have provided statements of support for the JedCampus initiative.