“You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you.” — Dan Millman

University. A time of independence, intellectual growth, and maybe even a bit of late-night pizza. But soon that pizza is not satisfying anymore, the library feels more like a burden than a source of knowledge, and even that comfy beanbag chair in your room feels like it is filled with rocks. This is not laziness, it is a sign that mental health needs to be taken care of. You should relax and focus on your health. Just like a building needs a strong foundation for a successful university experience.

Research indicates that more young adults are feeling positive about mental health services, with 65% of students who have not sought help having positive beliefs about them. Despite this, mental health issues in higher education are rising. This raises the question: Why are students not getting the mental health support they need?

With each year, more and more university students are facing mental health problems. About one-third of students who drop out of university do so because of mental health issues. Studies have shown that, on average, students’ mental well-being is lower compared to other people. Hence, it is imperative that universities provide mental health services for the mental well-being of students.

Why Universities Should Offer Mental Health Services on Campus?

Learning at a University offers a chance to learn new things, meet new people, and have new experiences. But let’s be honest, it can also be tough. With a new set of challenges like academic pressure, being away from home, making new friends, and figuring out your future, can be overwhelming. Mental health services on campus can ease the burden and develop new coping mechanisms for students.

Students Face A Lot of Pressure

When students go to college or campuses for their higher education, they face many new things together, such as academic pressure, making new friends, and managing busy schedules. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Strong mental health services on campus can help students cope with these challenges and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Not Everyone Knows Where to Turn

It has been noticed that, sometimes students might not even realise they are struggling with their mental health. If there are mental health services on campus, students can know that help is available, making it easier for them to seek it out.

It Benefits Everyone

Mentally healthy students are more likely to succeed in their studies and have a more positive university experience. This creates a better environment for everyone on campus.

Additional Common Reasons

1. Strong mental well-being is a key factor in how well students perform academically.
2. If students do not get help for mental health concerns, they are more likely to leave college before finishing their degree.
3. These common issues among college students are linked to lower grades.
4. Students with diagnosed mental health conditions or symptoms of depression are more at risk of not completing their studies.
5. The adulthood between 18 and 24 is when many serious mental health conditions first appear.
6. When students don’t graduate because of mental health concerns, it affects the overall skilled workforce (human capital).
7. Getting help early on when mental health challenges arise leads to better outcomes for students.

Ways Universities Can Support Student Mental Health in Higher Education

Many reasons can affect the mental health of a student such as feeling pressure to do well, being away from home, and dealing with new social situations. Universities need to create a supportive environment that cares about students’ well-being as much as their grades.

Raising Awareness and Normalising Challenges

Lots of students suffer from this issue quietly because mental health problems are often seen as shameful. Universities can change this by teaching students about the signs of mental health issues and letting them know about the support they can get. They can encourage students to talk openly about their challenges to help them feel understood.

Understanding Student Needs

A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. Universities can conduct surveys and assessments to understand the specific needs and attitudes of their students, staff, and faculty towards mental health. This information is important for creating specific and successful programs.

Leadership by Example

University leaders can set the tone by openly discussing mental health and sharing personal stories of overcoming challenges.  This will develop a culture of empathy, where students can to seek help without feeling judged.

Accessible and Affordable Care

For a student, this is the most crucial factor. Financial limitations can stop the student from going for mental health services. To tackle this issue, universities can invest in making counselling, therapy, and support groups affordable for their student population.

Weaving Wellness Throughout the University

Mental health and wellbeing should not be treated as a separate issue. Universities can include mental health and wellness topics in the curriculum, campus activities, and even in online learning systems. This helps emphasise the importance of self-care and takes a comprehensive approach to student well-being.

Takeaway: Investing in Students, Investing in the Future

Prioritising student mental health is not just the right thing to do, it is a smart investment. By creating a supportive environment and offering accessible resources, universities can help students thrive both academically and personally. After all, a happy and healthy student is more likely to succeed, graduate, and contribute positively to society.