EduAsiaNews, Riau – Universitas Riau (Unri), through its Academic Support Unit for Guidance and Counseling (UPA BK), conducted mental health screening for new students of the 2026 cohort. The activity was held at the Student Center Building, Bina Widya Campus, on Friday (September 11, 2026).
The screening was attended by hundreds of new students from various faculties across Unri. The activity served as an initial step toward the early detection of students’ psychological conditions as they transition from school to university life.
The program was organized to raise students’ awareness of the importance of mental health and encourage them to pay greater attention to their psychological well-being, particularly when facing academic pressure, adapting to a new environment, and navigating social challenges on campus.
Head of UPA BK Unri, Dr. Separen, M.H., explained that mental health is an important foundation for students’ academic success. According to him, new students are particularly vulnerable to anxiety and academic stress during their first semesters. Unri also provided experienced counselors and psychologists, both from the university and its partner institutions.
“Through this screening, we aim to map the initial mental health conditions of new students. The purpose is not to label them, but to facilitate early detection. If any students show symptoms of severe stress, anxiety, or depression, or are experiencing a toxic environment, we can promptly provide further professional and confidential support and counseling,” said Dr. Separen.
He added that UPA BK Unri provides free counseling services to all Unri students. The screening results will serve as a database for developing more targeted mental health intervention and education programs in the future.
Meanwhile, Unri Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Alumni, Prof. Dr. Hermandra, S.Pd., M.A., appreciated the initiative taken by UPA BK and reaffirmed the university leadership’s commitment to creating a mentally supportive campus environment.
“Students with good mental health are more likely to achieve academic success and develop strong character. The university leadership fully supports this program. It is in line with Unri’s efforts not only to excel academically but also to develop students who are resilient, adaptable, and possess good psychological well-being,” said Prof. Hermandra.
He expressed hope that all new students would participate openly in the program and not hesitate to make use of the counseling services provided by UPA BK whenever they need support.
Through this initiative, Prof. Hermandra added, awareness of the importance of mental health among the academic community of Universitas Riau is expected to continue increasing, while contributing to the creation of a healthy, supportive, and inclusive learning environment. He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of maintaining students’ psychological well-being throughout their university journey.
