Syllabus Language

A simple way to support both the mental health of students and campus suicide prevention efforts is to include a brief statement on your course syllabus. This helps promote help-seeking behaviors and demonstrates that instructors care about student well-being.

Each option can be personalized for your use.

(1) This version is designed for students new to MSU

College students often experience issues that may interfere with academic success such as academic stress, sleep problems, juggling responsibilities, life events, relationship concerns, or feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, or depression. If you or a friend is struggling, we strongly encourage you to seek support. Helpful, effective resources are available on campus, and most are at no-charge.

  • If you are struggling with this class, please visit during office hours or contact me by email at xxxxxx@msu.edu
  • Check-in with your academic advisor if you are struggling in multiple classes, unsure whether you are making the most of your time at MSU, or unsure what academic resources are available at MSU.
  • Access CAPS Services for new counseling and psychiatric services by scheduling a consultation.
  • CAPS is providing remote crisis services 24/7/365. Students can call us at 517-355-8270 and press “1” at the prompt to speak with a crisis counselor. Other prompt options are available for those not in crisis.
  • Visit caps.msu.edu for additional information and resources.

 

(2) Streamlined to focus on mental health services

College students often experience issues that may interfere with academic success such as academic stress, sleep problems, juggling responsibilities, life events, relationship concerns, or feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, or depression. If you or a friend is struggling, we strongly encourage you to seek support. Helpful, effective resources are available on campus, and most are free of charge.
  • If you are struggling with this class, please check-in during office hours or contact me by email at xxxxxx@msu.edu
  • Check-in with your academic advisor if you are struggling in multiple classes, unsure whether you are making the most of your time at MSU, or unsure what academic resources are available at MSU.
  • Access CAPS Services for new counseling and psychiatric services by scheduling a consultation.
  • CAPS is providing remote crisis services 24/7/365. Students can call us at 517-355-8270 and press “1” at the prompt to speak with a crisis counselor. Other prompt options are available for those not in crisis.
  • Visit caps.msu.edu for additional information and resources.

(3) Space saver version

Mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Services are available to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus on the Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) website at caps.msu.edu. 

​Article about syllabus language 

Mental Health on the Syllabus From INSIDE HIGHER ED
This informative article talks about encouraging professors to put information about mental health services on their syllabi.

 

Faculty/Staff