For over twenty years, studies have underscored a concerning surge in psychological distress among university students, alongside growing apprehension about staff wellbeing. While discussions about a mental health crisis in higher education are widespread, many crucial questions persist: What underlying factors are fueling this rise in mental health difficulties? How does the language we use around mental health influence the experiences of students and staff? Do existing strategies address the needs of university communities, or might they inadvertently exacerbate the issue? This symposium will convene leading scholars, university administrators, and mental health experts to examine these urgent matters. It offers