Breaking the Stigma: UIW Hosts “Lets Taco-Bout Mental Health” Event

On Thursday, Sept. 12, UIW hosted its annual “Let’s Taco-Bout Mental Health” event, offering helpful mental health resources to UIW students, faculty and community members. Attendees also enjoyed a taste of San Antonio with complimentary street tacos, were entertained by music and dancers and engaged in physically challenging activities that allowed them to become better connected with their own bodies. This unique blend of engaging conversations and tasty treats in a casual environment made the topic of mental health more approachable for all in attendance.

“The primary purpose of the Let's Taco-Bout Mental Health event is to break down the stigma associated with mental health and to let people know that it’s okay to reach out for support if you are struggling and having some difficulties in life,” explained Dr. Kevin Milligan, director of Behavioral Health Services. “The event increases awareness of the importance of supporting your mental health and the resources that are available to help someone who may be struggling with mental health concerns.”

The event included a resource market in which on-campus and city-based mental health resources and organizations conversed with and informed attendees on the beneficial services they can provide to those in need of support. Milligan explained that most partners invited to be a part of the event’s market are selected based on the needs expressed by students through the University’s counseling services.

Milligan explained that this event demonstrates to students and employees that UIW truly cares about their overall well-being by bringing awareness to the resources and support that are available to them at UIW and beyond.

“I think we try, too often, to navigate the difficulties of life alone and this event allows us to come together, as One Word and one community, to show support for one another and bring awareness to the ever-growing support that UIW has for the mental health of our students and employees,” he shared.

If you have any questions about Behavioral Health Services, please call (210) 832-5656, visit their website, or email Dr. Kevin Milligan, director of Behavioral Health, at kmilliga@uiwtx.edu.

If you would like to refer a student to Behavioral Health for counseling, complete the referral form here.