Mental Health Resources for College Students

Introduction 

Mental health is an important aspect of overall health but it can be especially challenging to maintain for college students who often face academic pressure, social isolation, and financial stress. Recognizing you could use a little extra help and asking for help is the first step. In this blog post, we'll explore some available resources and how to access them.

If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, please call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or dial 911. 

Counseling Services

Most colleges and universities offer free or low-cost counseling and mental health services. These can range from virtual and in-person therapy to peer support groups to mind and body classes. If they don’t offer what you need, they can usually help with referrals to outside mental health professionals if needed. Check out your school's website and counseling center to see what support your school has in-place.

Online Therapy

Online therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. It's convenient, affordable, and accessible for people who may not have access to in-person therapy. Many online therapy platforms offer discounted rates for college students, and some even offer free counseling sessions. Therapists will often price their sessions on a sliding scale based on your income, so there are options even if you don’t have insurance. Some popular online therapy platforms include BetterHelp, Talkspace, Headway, and Amwell.

Crisis Hotlines

If you or a friend is in need of immediate support, crisis hotlines can be a helpful resource. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) is available 24/7 and offers support for people in crisis, as well as resources for loved ones. If you prefer texting to talking on the phone, the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) is also available 24/7. The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386 or text 678-678) is a crisis hotline specifically for LGBTQI+ youth and offers support and resources.

Self-Help Resources

Self-help resources can also be an effective tool for managing mental health. Many colleges and universities offer workshops or courses on topics such as stress management, mindfulness, and meditation. There are many free apps and online resources available if you’d like to try incorporating meditation, gratitude journaling, mood tracking, yoga, or breathing exercises into your routine. Some popular apps, including Headspace, Calm, and Moodfit, offer student discounts.

Support Groups

Support groups can provide a safe space for students to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Many colleges and universities offer support groups for a variety of topics, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addiction. There are many online support groups available for those who may not be able to attend in-person meetings. Some popular online support groups include ActiveMinds, Mental Health America and SupportGroupsCentral.

Your Personal Support Network

While not the same as talking to a professional, it can be more comfortable to open up to a friend, family member, co-worker, teacher, classmate, or significant other about what you’re struggling with. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you could even ask for their help finding a support group or therapist. If someone you know has expressed similar feelings in the past, you can make a pact to check-in over the phone or in-person at the same time each day or week to talk about how you’re each doing. Depression and anxiety often trick us into thinking we’re alone or a burden – that is not the case! Loved ones are meant to lean on each other – that’s what they’re there for. 

We hope you find something in the above resources that helps you better your mental health. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and there is no shame in seeking support.