Named UCP2 Mental Health, this is the integrated system of mental health and well-being activities and services at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, currently under development and set to be ready by September 2026. Dedicated to Católica students, UCP2 Mental Health is built on three key pillars – Promotion and Prevention, Psychological Support, and Referral and Guidance – with its activities and services being progressively implemented.
The Promotion and Prevention pillar aims to enhance all Católica students' knowledge of mental health, self-care strategies, and psychological first aid, encouraging the early identification of warning signs and timely help-seeking. It also seeks to develop socio-emotional skills among first-year undergraduate and master's students, ensuring a smoother transition to higher education. Key planned activities include Mental Health Literacy and Psychological First Aid Workshop Cycles, as well as a Curricular Unit dedicated to soft skills development.
The Psychological Support pillar focuses on assisting students experiencing common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress. This pillar includes the development of the UCP2 Mental Health 24h digital platform, which will facilitate access to psychological support requests, screening, assessment, and intervention.
Meanwhile, the Referral and Guidance pillar aims to establish a solid network of partnerships with public and private healthcare institutions, ensuring support for at-risk situations, severe mental disorders, or clinical cases that fall outside the scope of Católica's psychological support services.
Mapping students' mental health
"How is Your Mental Health?" is a study designed to monitor and assess the mental health status of Católica students, enabling the UCP2 Mental Health system to respond ever more effectively to the real needs of students.
A system by and for students
A Student Advisory Panel – UCP Students' Voices has also been established to actively engage students in the planning and implementation of activities.
With UCP2 Mental Health, the Universidade Católica Portuguesa strengthens its commitment to creating a healthier, more supportive academic environment that prioritises student well-being.
