The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is dedicated to fostering the mental health and well-being of its student community through a comprehensive array of support services. These services are primarily delivered by the Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD), which offers free and confidential assistance to all UJ students.
PsyCaD Services:
- Counselling and Therapy: PsyCaD provides individual and couples therapy to address various personal challenges, including stress, relationship issues, and emotional difficulties. Sessions typically last 30 minutes and are conducted by qualified professionals adhering to the Health Professions Council of South Africa’s ethical standards.
- Walk-in Advisory Sessions: Students can access immediate support without prior appointments through 30-minute walk-in consultations. These sessions offer brief assistance and guide students to appropriate resources or services as needed.
- 24-Hour Crisis Line: For urgent psychological support, PsyCaD operates a 24-hour crisis line throughout the academic year. Students in crisis can reach a counsellor at 082 054 1137 for immediate assistance and guidance.
- Workshops and Psychoeducation: PsyCaD organises interactive workshops on various topics to enhance students’ academic and psychosocial well-being. These sessions equip students with valuable life skills and coping strategies.
Accessibility and Inclusivity:
Recognising the diverse needs of its student body, UJ ensures that mental health support is accessible across all campuses. PsyCaD maintains offices at Auckland Park Kingsway, Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein, and Soweto campuses. For students unable to attend in person, online and telephonic counselling services are available via platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams. Appointments can be scheduled by contacting the respective campus offices or emailing psychservices@uj.ac.za.
Proactive Mental Health Promotion:
Beyond reactive support, UJ actively promotes mental well-being through various initiatives:
- Awareness Campaigns: Collaborations with organisations like Okay Minds Hong Kong have led to training programmes aimed at developing emotional and mental health among students.
- Social Media Engagement: PsyCaD utilises platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to disseminate information, share mental health resources, and engage with the student community.
Through these comprehensive services and proactive initiatives, the University of Johannesburg underscores its commitment to supporting the mental health and overall well-being of its students, ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive both academically and personally.
