UCF increases security, mental health help on campus after FSU mass shooting

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – The University of Central Florida is increasing security and offering extra resources for mental health support following Thursday’s mass shooting on the campus of Florida State University.

UCF issued a message in response to the violence and notified students, faculty and staff about the increased support.

“We stand in solidarity with the FSU community during this impossibly difficult time, sending our strength and support as they navigate the aftermath of this tragedy,” the message stated. “We know that this news may feel especially personal for many in our community -- please know that you are not alone. We are here to listen and to help you feel safe, cared for, and supported.”

As part of the message, the UCF Police Department said students could see an increased presence of officers as the agency was actively patrolling campus to ensure safety.

On Friday, UCF opened a space for reflection and support from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. in the Magnolia Room of the Live Oak Event Center.

Sophomore Noemi Tilky said it was reassuring to see the space was made available to the entire UCF community.

[MENTAL HEALTH HELP: Find resources, stories of hope]

“They can have someone to talk to and having that person to talk to, I think, is a very good thing to have,” Tilky said.

UCF’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) also offers crisis support and mental health services through appointments, walk-ins, and a 24/7 crisis hotline at 407-823-2811.

For faculty and staff, the Employee Assistance Program offers its health advocates at 877-240-6863.

UCF encouraged everyone on campus to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to authorities by dialing 9-1-1.