Mental health services are an essential resource for students to navigate the challenges of college life. For Native and Indigenous students, these services are even more crucial given the traumatic history and ongoing impacts of colonization on their communities. Colleges and universities have a responsibility to provide free mental health services to Native and Indigenous students to support their well-being and academic success.

Historically, Native and Indigenous communities have faced significant trauma and discrimination, including forced displacement, cultural assimilation, and loss of land and resources. These historical traumas have contributed to high rates of mental health issues among Native and Indigenous populations, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, many Native and Indigenous students face unique stressors in college, such as feelings of isolation, cultural displacement, and the pressure to succeed academically while also navigating their identities and cultural traditions.

Despite these challenges, research has shown that Native and Indigenous students are less likely to seek mental health services compared to their non-Native peers. This is often due to stigma, lack of awareness of available resources, and cultural barriers to accessing care. Colleges and universities must take proactive steps to address these disparities and ensure that Native and Indigenous students have access to the support they need to thrive in their academic and personal lives.

Providing free mental health services to Native and Indigenous students is a critical step towards addressing these disparities. By removing financial barriers to care, colleges can make it easier for students to access counseling, therapy, and other mental health resources. In addition, colleges can offer culturally competent services that are tailored to the unique needs and experiences of Native and Indigenous students. This may include providing support groups, traditional healing practices, and connections to Native and Indigenous communities and resources.

Incorporating Indigenous perspectives and practices into mental health services can also help to foster a sense of cultural belonging and connection for Native and Indigenous students. By honoring their cultural traditions and values, colleges can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that promotes mental wellness and resilience.

In conclusion, colleges and universities have a responsibility to provide free mental health services to Native and Indigenous students to support their well-being and academic success. By removing financial barriers to care, offering culturally competent services, and incorporating Indigenous perspectives and practices, colleges can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for Native and Indigenous students to thrive. It is time for colleges to prioritize the mental health needs of Native and Indigenous students and ensure that they have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.