In addition to campus and UC-insurance based services, here are some external free-to-access mental health resources that are available to all.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
NAMI offers free guides, infographics and videos on mental health conditions, coping strategies and ways to support others. Their “Mental Health 101” section includes resources on recognizing signs of mental health challenges and fostering supportive conversations.
Mental Health America (MHA) – Tools 2 Thrive
MHA provides free downloadable toolkits, including worksheets on stress management, processing emotions and building resilience. The “Tools 2 Thrive” series is designed for individuals and communities to promote mental wellness.
Active Minds
Active Minds provides free resources tailored for college students, including guides on stress, anxiety, and creating mental health awareness campaigns. Their “Send Silence Packing” program encourages open conversations about mental health.
The Trevor Project
Offers free guides on supporting mental health, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth, with tips on creating inclusive environments and recognizing signs of distress. Their “Caring for Our Mental Health” guide is universally applicable.
LinkedIn Learning Opportunities
Take advantage of your free personal LinkedIn Learning account and the more than 16,000 available courses. Here are five classes to enhance your knowledge about mental health strategies and ways to support those at work, at home and in our communities.
Managing Stress for Positive Change (1h 3m)
Dr. Heidi Hanna provides strategies to reframe stress as a positive force, with techniques like mindfulness and energy management to reduce burnout.
Building Resilience (37m)
Offers practical steps to develop resilience, including managing setbacks and maintaining optimism, with exercises to practice daily.
Mindfulness Practices (1h 11m)
Scott Shute, former LinkedIn Head of Mindfulness, teaches mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and improve focus, with guided meditations.
Supporting Your Mental Health While Working from Home (45m)
Amy Brann discusses maintaining mental health in remote or hybrid settings, with tips on boundaries, routines, and self-care, adaptable for students studying remotely.
TED Talks
TED Talks are freely available on TED.com or YouTube and provide inspiring stories and expert insights. The following talks address mental health challenges, resilience and community support, aligning with UCLA’s goal of fostering a caring campus.
There’s No Shame in Taking Care of Your Mental Health (8:22)
Sangu Delle shares his journey overcoming stigma around mental health in his African culture, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength. He offers insights for men and others facing cultural barriers.
The Voices in My Head (14:14)
Eleanor Longden recounts her experience with schizophrenia and how learning to listen to her voices helped her recover. She critiques mental health systems and advocates for compassionate care.
Why Students Should Have Mental Health Days (7:09)
Teen mental health advocate Hailey Hardcastle explains why schools should offer mental health days to prioritize student well-being, sharing her advocacy for policy changes.
This Could Be Why You’re Depressed or Anxious (20:31)
Journalist Johann Hari explores how unmet human needs, like connection and purpose, contribute to depression and anxiety, advocating for community-based solutions over medication alone.
Is Social Media Hurting Your Mental Health? (17:58)
Social media expert Bailey Parnell discusses how excessive social media use can lead to anxiety and low self-esteem, offering strategies like auditing feeds and balancing online/offline life.
