Find Support

From tips and advice to campus resources for student activism and emotional wellness, review options for finding support.

Tips and articles

4 self-care questions to ask yourself this semester

It can be hard to know where we need to prioritize our time and energy. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself to help you make an effective self-care routine.

Ways to support yourself and each other through a traumatic event

For many of us, trauma can be challenging to define and even more challenging to talk about. Here are some ways you can support yourself and your fellow Buffs.

5 things you can do if you’re feeling overwhelmed by social media or the news

With so much going on in the world around us, it can be tempting to give in to endless scrolling on social media. However, checking every notification and reading every headline can have a negative effect on our mental health. These tips can help you take control of your feeds and improve your well-being online.

How to make the most of a tough conversation

Difficult conversations are a normal part of life, and we may not always agree with the viewpoints of our friends or family members. That being said, it’s important to communicate our thoughts and views in a thoughtful way. Here are some tips to help you make the most of tough conversations.

5 things everyone should know about trauma

Whether you have experienced trauma firsthand, witnessed a distressing event or are helping someone else through their experience, here are a few things everyone should know about trauma and ways to support a friend or loved one.

5 ways to cope with anti-LGBTQ+ legislation

The United States has seen a significant increase in legislation targeting LGBTQ+ rights and communities. These policies play a significant role in perpetuating discrimination and stigma across the country. They also have a direct impact on the health and welfare of LGBTQ+ individuals that go beyond the specific provisions and policies themselves. Here are some strategies you can use to cope with anti-LGTBQ+ legislation.

When is it time to seek mental health support?

Knowing where (and when) to seek out mental health support is important, whether you’re concerned about yourself or a friend. Here are some guidelines you can use to determine if you should seek emergency support, crisis support or general support for mental health concerns.

Tips for a positive group project experience

During your academic career at CU Boulder, you will most likely work in groups for class projects. Working on group projects allows you to build teamwork skills, learn how to distribute workloads and responsibilities, and manage conflicts. There are steps you can take to work through differences of opinion or difficult conversations with group members. Here are some tips for managing conflicts and cultivating positive group experiences.

Tips for being an ally

As a part of the Buff community, there are things we can do to create and maintain an inclusive campus environment. When it comes to looking out for each other, both on and off campus, here are some tips for being an ally and addressing harmful language or actions when you see or hear them.

Most people think conflict is a negative thing, but healthy conflict can result in growth, learning and understanding. Everyone has a different way of approaching conflict, and there is no correct approach—each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Learn which style fits your personality by taking our conflict quiz.

On-campus resources

Support for activism and free expression

CU Boulder Free Expression website

Freedom of expression and academic freedom are central to CU Boulder’s mission and underlie our community values of inclusivity and critical thinking.

Learn more about free speech at CU Boulder, frequently asked questions and additional resources.

Campus Use of University Facilities (CUUF) policy

The CUUF policy establishes parameters for using the entire Boulder campus, which includes all indoor and outdoor spaces. This resource is helpful in learning and understanding what is allowable on campus for student activism such as chalking, canvassing, amplified sound and posting flyers.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI)

CSI engages students in transformative experiences that foster lifelong skills, create meaningful connections and prepare students to live in a multi-cultural society and to work in a global community. CSI provides opportunities and resources for students through programming, student organization support and student employment. Learn more about student activism resources.

Student Code of Conduct

The Student Code of Conduct is the academic policy that supports community standards for behavior and emphasizes student's accountability and growth. The Code of Conduct outlines the actions that are prohibited for all students including, abusive conduct, underage drinking, damage to property, illegal use of drugs, having a fake ID, fire safety and other crimes.

Student organization event funding requests

Events are on-campus activities which engage the broader CU Boulder community. Events should align with a student organization’s mission and demonstrate elements of education, outreach or community enrichment.

Funding sources for student organizations

There are many funding sources on campus to support student organization activities. Many work directly with CSI and BuffConnect to provide funds following student fee regulations and policies set by CUSG.

The Colorado Creed

The Colorado Creed is a social responsibility code started by students and run by students. It is a way of life and a reminder to act with honor, integrity and respect.

Student organization handbook

CSI provides this handbook to help Buffs follow student organization policies, and shares resources and guidance to support students during their time at CU Boulder.

Support for emotional wellness

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

OVA provides free and confidential support, consultation, advocacy and short-term trauma counseling to all CU Boulder students, graduate students, staff and faculty who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or life-disrupting event. OVA also offers support for those who are helping a friend, partner, family member or colleague through a traumatic experience.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

CAPS provides a variety of resources to help undergraduate and graduate students navigate identity-based trauma and other mental health concerns. CAPS also provides consultations and support for those who are helping a friend, partner, family member or colleague.

Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)

SSCM provides students with individualized support to help them address a myriad of needs that may adversely impact their educational career. SSCM builds a trusting relationship with each student and connects them with campus partners, community resources and support systems, while also coaching them toward self-advocacy and success.

Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (SCCR)

Conflict happens, and it's important to remember it's normal. Contact the Conflict Resolution program to get support during stressful times. Free services include mediation, conflict coaching, guidance, skill-building and more.

Health and Wellness Presentations

Health and Wellness Services offers wellness presentations for staff, faculty and student groups. Presentation topics include mental health, compassion fatigue, allyship, trauma support, peer-to-peer skills, imposter syndrome, oppression and more.

Health and Wellness Training Opportunities

Health and Wellness Services provides training opportunities for students, staff and faculty related to mental health, trauma, leadership, suicide prevention, addiction recovery and more.

Office of the Dean of Students

The Office of the Dean of Students supports and advocates for students, and connects them with resources essential to their ongoing success. We partner with students in order to enhance their overall learning.

Don’t Ignore It: Reporting Resources

If you are considering reporting a concern or referring someone you are concerned about, you can explore your options. There are skilled people who deal with concerning and harmful behaviors impacting our community.

Ombuds Office

The Ombuds Office serves as a place to surface, voice, discuss and clarify university-related concerns. They help people identify options to resolve disputes, to determine a course of action and to aid in the informal resolution of conflicts and concerns. Ultimately, individuals choose their own path of resolution.

Center for Inclusion and Social Change (CISC)

CISC supports undergraduate and graduate students across multiple identities, including students of color, LGBTQ+ students, women and femme students, undocumented students and first-generation students. Students will find a welcoming and inclusive gathering space and a place to find community, resources and support for academic, personal and professional growth grounded in the core concepts of intersectional identity development, diversity, equity and social justice.

AcademicLiveCare

AcademicLiveCare is a free telehealth platform that allows CU Boulder students, staff and faculty to schedule virtual medical and mental health appointments regardless of your insurance plan. This service does not provide emergency or crisis services.