Support Resources

College of Medicine Student Advocacy Council

Purpose of the UAMS College of Medicine Student Advocacy Counsel (SAC):

To maximize the potential of all future physicians, intervening early to head off potentially life threatening / career destroying substance abuse or other serious difficulties.

Goals of the SAC Program:

• To provide an accessible safety net to all medical students who experience a wide array of difficulties

• To have trained SAC representatives who understand and recognize the warning signs and symptoms signaling that a peer is in trouble

• To have SAC leaders who reach out to peers having difficulties, and offer support and confidential early intervention. At times, they may facilitate their entry into an appropriate level of care

• To develop preventative educational programs to meet the evolving needs of the student body

• To maintain a supportive presence to peers throughout medical school during times of high stress

• To serve as a liaison/link to the UAMS Student Mental Health Service Office

Safety Net Function of the SAC:

The most important role of the Student SAC leaders is to be available to peers when they feel the need to reach out for support and help.  These leaders are trained to serve as a resource to answer questions when peers are concerned about classmates. SAC leaders intervene with peers when concerns arise regarding warning signs of difficulties (under the close supervision of faculty leaders).  When students are having significant difficulties beyond the scope of peer assistance, students are encouraged to seek the confidential services of the UAMS Student Mental Health Service.  SAC student leaders reassure students in this process and at times assist with making a rapid referral.  In emergencies, the SAC student leaders facilitate getting the student to the Student Mental Health Service or to the Emergency room to obtain immediate care when necessary.

Code of Ethics:

The SAC abides by a strict code of ethics.  Early recognition and confidential intervention are practiced in an effort to maximize the potential of all future physicians.  Students seeking help are cared for with compassion, understanding and respect for their privacy and confidentiality.

 College of Medicine Student Advocacy Council Web Site

UAMS Department of Psychiatry
4301 W. Markham # 789
Little Rock, AR 72205
501-686-8408
501-296-1427 (fax)