S6E3: The Human Factor: AI, Mental Health, and Higher Ed: Breaking Down the Stigma: Mental Health on Campus Today, Part 1

In this three-part series, host Lauren Kelley joins mental health experts to examine the evolving landscape of student mental health support in higher education, with a particular focus on the emerging role of AI-powered tools. The conversation begins by exploring how campus mental health conversations have transformed, addressing faculty misconceptions and establishing appropriate boundaries for educator involvement in student wellbeing. The experts provide concrete, actionable strategies faculty can implement immediately to recognize warning signs, create supportive classroom environments, and balance academic standards with mental health accommodations. 

In this opening episode, explore the dramatic shift in campus mental health needs and faculty awareness with host Lauren Kelley as she welcomes Becky Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Coordinator of Undergraduate Human Services at the University of Delaware, and Dr. Kate Riera, Assistant Professor in the Dept. Human Development and Family Sciences.

Part 1, key topics include:

• The evolution of mental health conversations on campus
• Breaking down stigma and the role of social media
• Common faculty misconceptions about student mental health

Whether you're a faculty member, administrator, or student services professional, this episode provides essential context for understanding today's mental health landscape in higher education.

Faculty contact information:
University of Delaware
Rebecca Wilson, MSW, LCSW: rlwilson@udel.edu
Human Services & Human Relations Admin Programs Coordinator | Instructor, Dept. Human Development and Family Sciences

University of Delaware
Dr. Kate Riera, PhD:  kriera@udel.edu
Assistant Professor, Human Services | Dept. Human Development and Family Sciences