The Kids Are Not All Right: College Mental Health Needs an Intervention | Big Think

TL;DR

Colleges provide mental health services for free to students, but challenges exist in balancing costs and providing care.

Transcript

There’s no legal requirement for schools to provide health or mental health services to their students. Colleges do it because it’s the right thing to do and because it’s prudent. I think there’s a growing understanding and it’s something that we at the Jed Foundation are trying to really make schools aware of that it’s in the school’s and the stud... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥶 Colleges provide mental health services for free to support students' well-being.
• 😨 Challenges exist in engaging college students in mental health care due to limited prior experiences.
• 😀 College students face increased risk of alcohol-related problems, including binge drinking and sexual assaults.
• ⌛ Transitioning to college is a time of excitement and opportunity but comes with psychological challenges.
• 🧑‍🎓 Students can prepare for college by learning basic life skills and seeking help when needed.
• 🧑‍🎓 Support services, such as counseling and academic advising, are available to assist students in navigating challenges.
• 🤩 Balancing the costs and benefits of mental health services is a key challenge for colleges.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why do most colleges provide mental health services for free?

Colleges offer mental health services for free because it is in the best interest of both the school and the students to provide support without extra cost. This helps in keeping students on track with their academic goals, leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.

Q: What are some challenges in providing mental health services to college students?

One major challenge is that many students in the 18 to 25 age group have had limited experiences with health or mental health care, making it difficult to engage them in treatment. Additionally, colleges struggle to balance the costs and benefits of providing a wide range of support services.

Q: How do college students' alcohol consumption patterns compare to non-college attendees?

College students tend to drink more alcohol than their non-college attending peers in the 18 to 25 age group, leading to a higher risk of alcohol-related problems. Alcohol bingeing is common among college students, with negative consequences such as fights, car accidents, and sexual assaults.

Q: What resources are available for college students facing mental health challenges?

Colleges offer support services such as counseling, academic advising, and student services to help students cope with academic and personal challenges. RAs, school websites, and the dean of students office can connect students to the help they need.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Colleges offer mental health services for free to students.

• Many college students face mental health challenges and are at risk for alcohol-related problems.

• Support services are available to help students navigate academic and personal challenges.