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College Mental Health: Resources Every Student Should Know About

Three in four students say mental health services help them graduate. Here is how to find support and thrive during your college years.

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DeepCampus Editorial Team

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3 min read
College Mental Health: Resources Every Student Should Know About

Good news: college student mental health is improving for the third year in a row. But challenges remain - more than one in three students still experience moderate anxiety or depression. Knowing your resources can make all the difference.

The Current Reality

Recent studies show encouraging trends:

  • Severe depression dropped to 18 percent from 23 percent in 2022
  • Suicidal ideation decreased to 11 percent from 15 percent in 2022
  • Student usage of mental health resources climbed to 37 percent from 30 percent in 2018-19
  • However, more than half of students still report experiencing loneliness. Only 36 percent of students are thriving with high levels of success in relationships, self-esteem, purpose, and optimism.

    Why This Matters for Your Success

    Three in four students believe they are more likely to graduate because of mental health services at their institution. Provosts rank mental health as the number one campus threat to student safety and well-being, followed by personal stress, academic stress, and food and housing insecurity.

    Resources Available on Most Campuses

    Counseling Centers

    Most campuses offer free or low-cost counseling. These services help with family conflict, transition to college, academic stress, depression, anxiety, and relationship struggles. Over 55 percent of students know where to access these resources - make sure you are one of them.

    Wellness Spaces

    Colleges are creating innovative wellness spaces. Many now have private rooms with zero-gravity chairs, virtual fitness, self-paced yoga, mindfulness sessions, breath work, and meditation. Check if your campus has these resources.

    Peer Support Programs

    Many schools offer peer counseling and support groups. Sometimes talking to someone your age who understands college life is exactly what you need.

    Crisis Resources

    Know your campus crisis hotline. Most schools have 24/7 support available. The national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is always available.

    Building Your Own Wellness Routine

    Balance Is Essential

    Finding a healthy balance between school and self-care is essential. Make time for sleep, meals, and activities you enjoy. Your mental and physical well-being are just as important as your grades.

    Develop Coping Skills

    Campus leaders recommend developing skills like distress tolerance, reflexive thinking, and healthy boundaries. These help you handle stress without becoming overwhelmed.

    Find Your People

    When seeking professional support, consider provider identity and lived experiences. Many students find it helpful to work with counselors who share aspects of their background.

    When to Seek Help

    Do not wait until crisis. Consider reaching out if you experience:

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  • Difficulty concentrating on schoolwork
  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Withdrawal from friends and activities
  • Thoughts of self-harm
  • How DeepCampus Supports You

    Our university profiles include information about campus mental health resources. When researching schools, consider the wellness support they offer. Your mental health matters as much as academics.

    You are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Use the resources available to you.

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