Mental Health Resources on College Campuses
SaveThis article will explore the different types of mental health resources available on college campuses, and how parents can help their children take advantage of these services.
By Kaley White
When students transition from high school to college, they face many challenges and adjustments including new academic stressors, social pressures, and significant shifts in independence. For many parents, their child's transition can be a source of worry and concern, especially when it comes to their child's mental well-being. A 2024 Family Engagement Report found that parents who use family resources are 20% more satisfied with the institution. However, many parents — approximately 47% of families surveyed in the 2024 Family Engagement Report — wanted more communication about mental health resources.
Colleges and universities across the country are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health and wellness for students in retention and academic success outcomes. Many campuses, resultantly, are providing a variety of resources to support student mental health needs. This article will explore the different types of mental health resources available on college campuses, and how parents can help their children take advantage of these services.
Individual Counseling Services
Among the most common mental health resources on college campuses are counseling services. Most colleges offer free or low-cost counseling sessions with licensed therapists or counselors who are trained to help students navigate through various emotional challenges, whether daily stressors or more complex challenges like bereavement. Counseling services are often confidential, meaning that counselors will not communicate the details of sessions with parents or guardians. This protects students and provides a safe space to talk about their concerns, fears, and anxieties. Counselors also help students develop and adjust to college life. Counseling centers might run workshops on coping skills, managing stress, or tips to work through any mental health challenges your child faces. Parents can encourage their children to seek out counseling services if they feel overwhelmed or struggle to cope with the academic and social demands of college life.
Group Counseling Services
In addition to individual counseling, many college campuses also offer group therapy. In group therapy, students can connect with others who may deal with similar challenges or share similar perspectives and experiences. Group therapy provides a sense of community and support for students who may feel isolated or alone. Parents can suggest to their children to try out group therapy as a way to connect with peers, meet other communities, and gain perspective on their own mental health experiences.
Psychiatric Services
Depending on the size of your child's campus, psychiatric services might also be an option for treatment. Some colleges have psychiatrists or nurse practitioners on staff who can evaluate students for mental health diagnosis, prescribe medication, and provide ongoing treatment and support. Psychiatric services can be especially beneficial for students who may struggle with more treatment-dependent mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or eating disorders. Research shows that many of these diagnoses can arise during an individual's early 20's. If your child experiences persistent and prolonged behavior shifts, encourage them to reach out to psychiatric services. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of more common mental health challenges, and encourage your child to follow through with any prescribed treatment plans.
Crisis Intervention
College campuses also often have crisis intervention services available for students who are in immediate distress or experience a mental health emergency. Crisis intervention services typically involve a team of trained professionals who can assess the situation, provide support, and connect students with appropriate resources and services. These services are crucial for students who may experience thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or other dangerous behaviors. Parents should educate their children on how to access crisis intervention services in case of an emergency. In the event that your child has a roommate with a mental health history, we recommend reading this article for support. Remind your child that it is okay to ask for help when needed.
Wellness Programs and Workshops
Aforementioned, in addition to counseling, therapy, psychiatry, and crisis intervention services, many colleges offer wellness programs and workshops designed to promote mental health and well-being among students. These programs may include yoga and meditation classes, stress management workshops, mindfulness practices and coping strategies, along with other holistic approaches to mental wellness. Parents can encourage and model for their children ways to participate in these programs to de-stress, relax, and prioritize their mental health.
Disability Services
Another important resource available on college campuses is disability services. Students with mental health conditions such as ADHD, autism, physical and/or other learning disabilities may be eligible for accommodations and support services through the college's disability services office through the IDEA Act. Accommodations may include extended time on exams, note-taking assistance, extra study assistance, or priority registration for classes. Parents should work with their children to ensure that they are aware of the resources available through disability services and help them navigate the process of requesting accommodations on campus if needed.
Control the Controllables
It is also important for parents to remind their children about the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle while in college. Even on a tight budget, there are many practical and inexpensive ways to practice self care. Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring joy are all crucial and more controllable components of mental wellness. Parents can encourage their children to prioritize establishing a routine and making time for activities that help them relax and recharge, such as spending time with friends, decompressing with art or other enjoyable activities, or getting some fresh air.
Parents can educate themselves about the mental health resources available on their child's college campus and stay informed about the ways in which they can support their children's mental state. Many colleges will offer parent orientation programs and workshops on mental health awareness and resources, which can provide valuable information and guidance for parents. If you cannot make such workshops or they are not offered, call the centers on your child's campus and request information. Staying actively involved and engaged in your child's college experience helps support your child's mental health while they navigate adjusting to and thriving on campus.
College can be a challenging and stressful time for many students. With the right support and resources, you and your child can navigate through with ease. Parents can play a key role in helping your children access the mental health resources available on college campuses. Never hesitate to encourage your child to advocate for themselves and ask for the information they need to prioritize their mental well-being. Working together and staying informed about the resources available helps parents ensure that their child maximizes the resources available to them while on campus.
Kaley White
Kaley earned her M.S.Ed with distinction from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. As Director of Special Programs, Kaley manages the day-to-day operations of the SAGE Scholars Newsroom. Alongside a team of writers, she generates timely resources to help bridge the gap for students transitioning from high school to college. She currently resides in Philadelphia.Articles & Advice
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