Texas State to host mental health panel discussion Nov. 2

STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Lane Fortenberry | October 27, 2023

Texas State University’s Office of Disability Services (ODS) will host “Bobcat Care: College Student Mental Health Panel Discussion” on Thursday, Nov. 2, from 5-7 p.m. in the LBJ Student Center, 3-14.1.

The panel discussion is the office’s signature event where faculty and staff will discuss mental health issues and different coping mechanisms to help college students relieve the symptoms of mental stress.

The panel discussion will be hosted by Harlan Ballard, Ph.D., outreach coordinator and veteran liaison for ODS, and moderated by Eraldo “Dino” Chiecchi, associate professor of practice in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication. The panelists include:

• Richard Martinez, Ph.D., assistant director, senior psychologist, coordinator of educational programming and outreach, Counseling Center
• Angela Ausbrooks, Ph.D., interim dean, professor, School of Social Work
• Emilio Carranco, Ph.D., assistant vice president, Student Success, director, University Health Services
• Jojo Cummins, senior psychology major, vice president, Healthy Cats
• Sarah Blalock, Ph.D., associate professor of Professional Psychology, Department of Counseling, Leadership, Adult Education, and School Psychology
• Edward C. Jones, Ph.D., United States Air Force Major, director, Air Force Graduate Social Work Program, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston

“Many students with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and other mental health issues are unaware of the resources available to them,” said Ballard. “Subject matter experts will examine strategies on how to overcome these psychological obstacles, how to deal with mental health issues, and the help and services available to students. This free event is designed for anyone who wishes to learn more about mental health.”

The panel discussion is open to students, staff, faculty, and the public. It will be held in person and virtually via Zoom.

If you require accommodations due to a disability or need more information, call 512-245-3451 or email the Office of Disability Services at least 72 hours prior to the event.

Register to attend on the registration webpage.