Medical school can be demanding, and students do not have to navigate difficult moments alone.
Students may reach out to a Wellness Ambassador if they:

• Are concerned about a fellow student and aren't sure how to help.
• Have questions about available mental health and wellness resources.
• Would feel more comfortable beginning a conversation with another student.
• Want to connect with a peer who can listen and help them identify appropriate support.
  

Wellness Ambassadors are not counselors or mental health professionals, nor do they replace the support provided by the Department of Mental Health Services (DMHS), lead advisors, the Office of Student Affairs or other professional resources.

Wellness Ambassadors participate in training focused on mental health awareness, burnout, depression, anxiety, substance use, suicide prevention, bystander intervention, inclusion and respect, healthy boundaries and referral pathways.

Their training emphasizes a simple framework for supporting peers:

Recognize → Engage → Assess Safety → Refer

Ambassadors learn that supporting a peer does not mean having all the answers. Instead, they are prepared to recognize concerns, engage in caring and appropriate conversations, identify potential safety concerns and help connect students with available resources.

The program is developed and facilitated through a partnership between the IU School of Medicine Wellness Coalition and the Department of Mental Health Services, with additional contributions from campus and university partners.

Wellness Ambassadors complement the professional and institutional support already available to IU School of Medicine students.

Students are always encouraged to reach out directly to the Department of Mental Health Services, their Lead Advisors, the Office of Student Affairs or other university resources when they need support. For confidential counseling and additional resources, visit the IU School of Medicine Mental Health Services page.