Emma Gray
Fall 2024
Public Relations Plan
Two Media Exposure Ideas
1. Mental Health Awareness Week
2. Panel of mental health experts
My first idea for the public relations plan would be Indiana University Indianapolis (IUI) hosting a Mental Health Awareness Week. During the mental health awareness week, IUI could partner with Counseling and Psychology Services (CAPS) to host events throughout the week. CAPS could host interactive activities such as guided meditation sessions, art therapy workshops, or group discussions on mental health myths and facts. They could also set up mental health screening stations. These stations would allow students to participate in a brief mental health assessment that screens for depression, anxiety, and stress. These screening stations could serve as an entry point for students who may not have considered counseling services but are interested in learning more about their mental health. Counselors could be available to discuss the results and offer recommendations for the next steps. During the mental health awareness week, informational booths would be set up throughout campus that offers mental health resources via flyers, pamphlets, and word of mouth. These ideas would benefit not only the students attending IUI, but it would also help spread more awareness about CAPS and increase engagement in the services offered by CAPS. Mental health stigma is one of the primary barriers preventing students from seeking counseling services. A mental health awareness week encourages conversation among students, which destigmatizes mental health struggles and promotes seeking help.
"Mental health stigma is one of the primary barriers preventing students from seeking counseling services. A mental health awareness week encourages conversation among students, which destigmatizes mental health struggles and promotes seeking help."
Another idea for the public relations plan would be hosting a panel of mental health experts to speak to students attending IUI. The speakers could come during the mental health awareness week. This panel would contain a diverse group of professionals including a counselor from CAPS, psychologists, academic advisors, and a mental health influencer. They would discuss topics relevant to student well-being, such as managing academic stress, coping with anxiety and depression, navigating life transitions, and building resilience. The panel would also address common myths about mental health care, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage students to view seeking therapy or counseling as a healthy and proactive step. There would also be an open Q&A session, where students attending the event would be able to ask questions. This would benefit CAPS because it would encourage students to seek mental health services, specifically from CAPS.