Emotional and mental well-being

Emotional and mental well-being can be described as feelings and experiences that improve one’s quality of life, help to realize a person’s full potential and cope with the stresses of life.
Normalizing access to mental health services is vital for the improvement of emotional and mental well-being, the elimination of systemic inequities in mental health and the application of appropriate treatments.
Helplines
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — Call 988
- Crisis Text Line Get Help Now (24/7) —Text HELLO to 741741
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Helpline — 1-800-985-5990
Contact Us
If you feel you are in crisis or emergency and this is outside of the Detroit Mercy Wellness Center clinic hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) please contact the following:
Emergency Assistance
Police – Fire – Medical — 911
University of Detroit Mercy Public Safety/Emergency Line — 313-993-1234
Call for help
University of Detroit Mercy Public Safety Escort Services
McNichols Campus — 313-993-1234
School of Law — 313-993-1234
School of Dentistry — 313-494-6706
Detroit Mercy offers personal counseling services to students and employees
It is also important to make space to ask for help or request resources relating to mental health. One such space with a focus on belonging, service, justice and spiritual development is our University Ministry.
Personal Counseling
Personal Counseling for Students
Detroit Mercy will offer both in-clinic and online access to counseling sessions. Session modality will be determined according to student need. Therapists will be available for crisis intervention treatment from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Personal Counseling Hours
Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Personal Counseling
313-993-1562
personalcounselingwc@udmercy.edu
McNichols Campus Location:
West Quad, Room 104
Detroit Mercy McNichols Campus
4001 W. McNichols Rd.
Detroit, MI 48221
Personal Counseling for Employees
In addition to an employee’s mental health services coverage in their health insurance, employees may seek counseling assistance from the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through UNUM. UNUM refers confidential, short-term counseling from Licensed Professional Counselors. In a crisis, emergency help is available 24/7. Counseling assistance is available for the following:
- Stress, anxiety, depression.
- Relationship, family, parenting issues.
- Substance abuse.
- Anger, grief, loss.
- Life transitions.
- Referrals for additional treatment, as needed.
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Mental, Emotional and Spiritual Wellness
As we continue to persevere together through an unprecedented humanitarian and economic crisis, we will need to embrace supportive community and campus resources, virtual and social distance connection and practice coping skills that can help lessen anxiety during this time.
- During times of crisis, it is normal to experience a wave of emotions as a response to stress. Focus on what is certain, such as your personal values and what you are grateful for. Try writing down a gratitude list that includes three things you are grateful for each day.
- Be solution oriented. Use your strengths by considering past challenging life experiences. How did you move through it and what helped? Remember that you are strong and resilient.
- Mental health counseling can offer a great deal of support and connection during times of major adjustment and change. If interested in online counseling appointments, contact the Detroit Mercy Wellness Center: personalcounselingwc@udmercy.edu.
- Detroit Mercy Personal Counselor Erika Budson, LPC, is offering virtual guided meditations to help us connect to ourselves while we physically distance from others.
- Mindfulness and meditation apps, such as Headspace and Insight Timer, can also be a helpful resource to practice guided meditations to manage stress and combat sleep difficulties.
Physical Wellness Helps Mental Wellness
- Movement, physical exercise and deep breathing help the body regulate stress hormones. Short walks or even stretching can help us feel less fatigued and gain mental clarity. It is likely many of your favorite, local exercise studios are now offering online virtual classes, which can offer a source of accountability and connection.
- Fitness apps can also be a great resource to track progress and goals.
- Practice self-care! A balanced diet and consistent rest are protective health factors. Fuel your body with nutrients.
Action
- Curate your news and social media experience by selecting content that keeps you informed, not panicked or helpless.
- Acts of service and kindness can be beneficial for your own well-being. Reach out by phone to a family member or friend to check-in or if you have the means, donate to a local organization. Working together as a community can help create solidarity.
Useful Links
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Pastoral Care
Pastoral Care for Students
University Ministry offers pastoral counseling and spiritual direction both in-person and online according to student need. University ministers and spiritual directors (priests, sisters and lay people) are available between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday via email or office phone. The University Ministry Office is located on the ground floor of the Student Union across from the bookstore. Spaces for prayer and reflection are available in the following areas:
- McNichols: St. Ignatius Chapel in the Commerce & Finance Building, the Islamic Prayer Room on the first floor Student Union, the Holy Spirit Chapel on the lower level of the Student Union past the group study rooms, and the Multi-Faith Reflection Room on the ground floor of the McNichols Library.
- Corktown (Dental): Reflection Room and Muslim Prayer Room on the fourth floor of the Clinic Building in Room 4-106.
- Riverfront (Law): Peter and Paul Church and Multi-Faith Reflection Room on the first floor.