RALEIGH, N.C. — N.C. State University is canceling class on Thursday, Feb. 16. It's part of the university's initiative to help improve student, faculty and staff's mental health through "Wellness Days."

Throughout the day, there will be several de-stressing and relaxing activities on campus for students to attend. The focus on mental health comes after eight students died at the university this academic school year, with the most recent being a suspected suicide. 

A spokesperson for N.C. State confirmed a female undergraduate student was found dead on Feb. 12 in Sullivan Hall. A few days earlier, a graduate student died from natural causes, and in January, an undergraduate student also died from natural causes, Chancellor Randy Woodson wrote in a letter to students. 

"No matter the cause, the loss of a friend, a roommate, a classmate, hurts deeply and can seem overwhelming to cope with. Words do little to console, but I want you to know I share in your grief, and your community shares in your grief. And if you are struggling, there are ways to get help," Woodson said. 

In an effort to improve services and resources available to students who are struggling with their mental health, the university launched a Student Mental Health Task Force last fall. The task force is made up of 28 student, faculty and staff members from different departments within the university. 

Eleanor Lott is a sophomore at N.C. State and is serving on the task force. 

"The program was developed in order to prevent future tragedies like the ones that we experienced last semester and this semester. It’s a work in progress, but there will be plenty of resources for all of the students here," Lott said.  

Lott says it's important for students to have rest time to focus on themselves rather than the stress that being a college student can bring. 

"I’m very sad to find out students are struggling so hard, and they are not getting the care that they need," Lott said. 

The university had drop-in counseling services for students earlier this week, but students can get support year-round. 

"There is a new program that they're using called AcademicLiveCare, which provides telehealth appointments for mental health for students," Lott said. 

Students have access to 12-free telehealth sessions throughout the year and can get appointments for therapy sessions within 24 to 48 hours, according to the university. 

Woodson also encourages students, staff and faculty to check in on each other. 

“If you’re struggling, please talk to a friend, faculty member, parent or other family member, or someone else you trust. If you think someone is struggling, reach out to them. You can also make an online referral for a student or employee you’re concerned about," Woodson said. 

The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and can be accessed by calling or texting 988.