Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers visited the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s (UWM) Student Health and Wellness Center to emphasize the significance of mental health care. The visit is part of the governor’s efforts to bring attention to mental health as he has declared 2023 the year of mental health.
During his tour, Governor Evers met with UWM Chancellor Mark Mone, campus leaders, and UWM students. Dr. Aamir Siddiqi, UWM’s campus health officer and the wellness center’s executive director, provided an overview of the center’s medical and counseling services. Governor Evers learned about various wellness initiatives, including UWM’s new Mindful Space designed to provide a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The health center shared the challenges they face in meeting students’ needs, primarily due to limited resources and available clinicians. The center conducted over 7,500 counseling sessions and provided services to more than 1,500 students in the past year, representing 6.4% of the student population.
In response to the increasing demand for mental health services, the center expanded its offerings, including teletherapy appointments on evenings and weekends, and introduced a mental health support line staffed around the clock for UWM students.
Governor Evers emphasized the importance of ensuring that students have access to the necessary mental health services.
