Research shows that college students are experiencing higher rates of stress and psychopathology than ever before. The American Psychological Association reported in a survey of college counseling center directors that 95 percent of those surveyed agreed that “the number of students with significant psychological problems is a growing concern in their center or on campus.” Anxiety and stress are the main concern amongst campus mental health professionals, followed by depression, then relationship problems.
An important part of dealing with mental health on campus is to utilize the on-campus resources for mental health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), “On-campus health clinics and counseling offices offer services for dealing with everyday concerns… On-campus resources are a good place to start when you first develop a mental health problem, but they probably won’t be able to provide long-term help. The counselors can help you find a long-term therapist or doctor in the community.”
NSU students have access to 10 free sessions per year with Henderson Student Counseling Services. Both part-time and full-time NSU students are eligible for these services. Students can make an appointment by calling Henderson Student Counseling Services at 954-888-6911 or by visiting their office at the University Park Plaza on University Drive.
As the demand for mental health services on campus grows, colleges around the country are adding new ways for students to access mental health services. At NSU, Henderson Student Counseling Services has a crisis hotline at can be reached 24/7. The number for the crisis hotline is 954-424-6911. According to Time Magazine, in 2018 “UCLA offered all incoming students a free online screening for depression. More than 2,700 students have opted in, and counselors have followed up with more than 250 who were identified as being at risk for severe depression, exhibiting manic behavior or having suicidal thoughts.”
For students with severe mental health concerns, NAMI has a few suggestions for how to ask for accommodations. First, identify the help that you will need. Then, register with the Office of Student Disability Services and provide the appropriate documentation. For more information, students can contact NSU’s Office of Student Disability Services at 954-262-7185.
While concerns over mental health on campus are growing, there are still places where students can reach out for help if they need it.
