April 2026 Insights: Spring has sprung – but the semester isn’t quite done!
April is one of the busiest months for student support teams. Students often shift from mid‑semester stress to end‑of‑semester urgency, and we see increases in academic burnout, tutoring usage, and overall anxiety. Just remember – you are not alone, and it is always okay to ask for help.
April Overview: Reports & Key Activity
April brought steady reporting of student concerns. A total of 109 reports were made
to the CARE Team, with many highlighting mental health needs and academic stress.
Each report was reviewed for immediate safety and wellness concerns, then referred
to Student Outreach & Support for non clinical case management.
Case managers worked diligently throughout the month to support both the immediate
and ongoing needs of students. While some students voiced a lack of motivation or
difficulty finishing the semester strong, others faced concerns that posed more immediate
risk.
Elevated Concerns:
- 10 students were hospitalized in April for various reasons. SOS supported these
students during hospitalization by coordinating academic support with professors and
assisting in the transition back to campus.
- 7 students reported having thoughts of suicide or hurting themselves. SOS provided
supportive listening, assessed for suicide, and made appropriate referrals – such
as Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).
- 12 students were identified as food insecure. SOS connected students to the Shocker
Support Locker and Swipe Out Hunger.
- 17 students voiced having family concerns, including housing uncertainty for the
summer. SOS referred and connected students to community partners that provide free
services for housing instability.
Though these are not all the concerns shared with our team, they reflect common themes we see in April as the semester comes to an end. Many students struggle with motivation, mental health, and preparing for services they may need over the summer months. As dining options shift and campus housing closes for those not enrolled in summer courses, more students are reaching out with questions about summer housing and access to basic resources. SOS’s strong knowledge of community supports allows us to help students navigate these transitions and remain connected to the care they need.
Community Connections
Wichita State University offers many services that support student wellbeing, but there are times when a community referral is the most appropriate option.
SOS has seen an increase in students experiencing housing instability or homelessness. To better support these students, SOS has strengthened partnerships with community agencies that provide free housing related services.
Community Partners:
- Breakthrough Club: A social and vocational program supporting individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. They collaborate with Wichita shelters to assist those experiencing housing instability.
- CrossRoads: A 24 hour low barrier emergency shelter and drop in center for adults ages 18–24 experiencing homelessness.
- Bridges: A Wichita Children’s Home program offering transitional residential care and independent living support for young adults who are homeless, pregnant, or aging out of foster care.
SOS met with these providers and toured additional housing supports in the community. Strengthening these connections ensures that all students have access to the care and services they need to thrive as Shockers.
Looking Ahead: May Madness!
Exciting things are fast approaching as we head into the final stretch of the semester:
- Destress Fest: May 4th – 8th.
This is a week of activities designed to help students unwind before finals. SOS will
collaborate with HOPE Services and the Prevention Ambassadors on Style Your Tile on
Friday, May 8, from 11am–1pm on the RSC North Patio.
- Finals week: May 9th – 14th
Parents and supporters – this is a good time to reach out, offer words of encouragement,
send a care package, or remind your student that you believe in them.
- Commencement
Graduate & doctoral programs: Friday May 15th
Undergraduate programs: Saturday May 16th