New student mental health services launch Oct. 10

Closeup of a student's hands using a smartphone.
Starting Oct. 10, all students on all Washington State University campuses will have access to ProtoCall+, a robust suite of mobile-based mental health resources.

Starting Oct. 10, all students on all Washington State University campuses will have access to ProtoCall+, a robust suite of mobile-based mental health resources. 

ProtoCall+ gives students easy access to mental health professionals, self-help tools, and other forms of mental health support. It is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is free for all students.

The new services will supplement existing student mental health resources on WSU campuses and help WSU address the growing need for mental health support among students while increasing their self-sufficiency and resilience, said Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Ellen Taylor.

“It is very important that we provide students with access to mental health services across our university system, and I’m excited that we are moving in that direction,” Taylor said. “These services are designed to support students and move them upstream so they can build their own skills, resiliency, and self-sufficiency in navigating life’s inevitable bumps.”

Supporting mental health

ProtoCall+ provides resources and support for students who are proactively seeking ways to maintain or manage their mental health. It consists of four apps that can be used individually or together, depending on a student’s needs:

WellTrackAn online, self-directed therapy experience for managing depression and anxiety. Students can explore relaxation exercises, simulations to handle specific concerns, meditation tools, and more. A companion app, MoodCheck, lets students monitor their mood throughout the day and connect to what’s influencing it.

24/7 Campus Support Numbers: Round-the-clock access to highly trained mental health professionals who can provide emotional support, conduct assessments, and determine what’s needed for immediate intervention and stabilization – all within a supervised, secure environment. 

*If a student poses an immediate threat to themselves or others, you should call 911.

togetherallHelps students explore their mental health in a safe, supportive environment. This anonymous peer community gives students a safe space to share their feelings, provides support, and is clinically managed by mental health professionals. It also offers self-assessments, courses, and tools for creative expression.

The Shrink SpaceConnects students with off-campus mental health providers who can meet their specific needs. Students can search for providers based on specialties, therapist identities, insurance/cost, and more. 

All services are confidential and can be accessed on any mobile device.

Spreading the word

In honor of World Mental Health Day, all faculty and staff in the WSU system are encouraged to prioritize sharing these important services with students. There are assets available online that make it easy to incorporate information about ProtoCall+ into presentations, trainings, programs, social media posts, and other spaces.  

Faculty and staff in need of mental health support are encouraged to use the Employee Assistance Program to find counseling and other services.

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