Mental health issues are a growing concern among college students, with a recent survey showing that almost 40% of college students reported feeling so depressed in the prior year that it was difficult to function. This statistic underscores the importance of advocating for mental health on college campuses, and real students are leading the charge for change.
One such student is Sarah, a junior majoring in psychology at a large university. Sarah has struggled with anxiety and depression since high school, but it wasn’t until she arrived on campus that she realized she needed help. She sought counseling services at her university’s health center, but was disappointed by the long wait times and limited resources available. Determined to make a difference, Sarah began advocating for improved mental health services on campus.
Sarah started by joining a student organization focused on mental health awareness and advocacy. Together with other students, she organized events to raise awareness about mental health issues, hosted workshops on stress management and mindfulness, and lobbied university administrators for more funding for mental health resources. Through their efforts, Sarah and her peers were able to secure additional counseling staff, extended hours for the health center, and even a mental health hotline for students in crisis.
Another student, Alex, a sophomore studying communications, has a different but equally important story to share. Alex struggled with an eating disorder in high school, and was worried about maintaining his recovery while away at college. He found support through a local eating disorder treatment center, but noticed a lack of awareness and understanding about eating disorders on campus. Alex knew that he needed to speak out about this issue and advocate for better resources.
Alex started by sharing his own story with his classmates and professors, hoping to help break the stigma surrounding eating disorders. He also organized a panel discussion on campus featuring mental health experts and individuals in recovery from eating disorders. This event sparked important conversations about body image, self-esteem, and the role that colleges can play in supporting students with eating disorders.
Both Sarah and Alex are shining examples of how college students can make a real impact on mental health advocacy. By sharing their own experiences, speaking out about important issues, and demanding change from their universities, they are helping to create a more supportive and inclusive campus environment for all students.
If you are a college student who is passionate about mental health advocacy, there are many ways that you can get involved. Consider joining a student organization focused on mental health, attending events and workshops on campus, or reaching out to university administrators to share your concerns and ideas for improvement. Together, we can work to create a culture of support and understanding around mental health on college campuses.