Professionals on Campus
Some colleges offer counseling programs, counseling and psychological services (CAPS), or other mental health services. They may be free to students or even available online.
"Studies show counseling only takes a few sessions for students to begin to benefit from the experience," Lesley said. "Not sure if counseling is right for you? Give it at least three sessions before you decide."
Talk to Your Peers
"Sometimes you have to make your own support system," advised Wallace. "My support system at my lowest point was my partner, my friends, and my family."
Additionally, some campuses run peer counseling programs. Student volunteers receive training to support their peers through mental health conditions and refer them to additional services. Some student-led groups, such as the University of Illinois Chicago's United Support Network, even host regular support groups for their peers.
Take Time to Prioritize Self-Care
Give yourself time and space to focus on you. Explore our collection of mental health resources to find support.Learn More
Where to Get Help for Depression Immediately
Your college campus may run a hotline to assist students in crisis. You can also always contact the following for confidential help, 24/7, 365 days a year:
With Advice From:
Kelly Wallace is a first-year media and culture major at West Chester University.
Brandon Bond is a first-generation University of Michigan graduate student pursuing an MPH in health behavior and health education with an injury science certificate and an MSW in global social work practice and management and leadership with an anti-racist trauma-informed care certificate. Bond currently works as a wellness coach where he helps develop wellness-centered programming and coaches college students of underrepresented backgrounds. Bond earned the 2022 George Orley Student Mental Health Advocate Award and Michigan Difference Student Leadership Wellness Award.
Francesca Reicherter is the founder and president of Inspiring My Generation, a 501(c)3 in support of mental health awareness and suicide prevention. She holds an MS and is a current MA in psychology student at Pepperdine University. Inspired by her mental health journey, Reicherter works to make resources and information accessible. Reicherter's work includes two published workbooks focused on coping with and advocating for your mental health. She also hosts "Normalize the Conversation," a podcast series amplifying the voices of mental health professionals, advocates, and any individual interested in sharing their story.
Barry Granek is a licensed psychotherapist with more than 15 years of experience. He specializes in emotional issues and life transitions occurring in early adulthood.
Rhonda Lesley is director of the Counseling Center at Missouri State University. She has over 25 years of practice as a licensed professional counselor in Missouri, focusing her career mainly in higher education and private practice. She has also worked in community mental health settings.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Readers of this website should consult with their physician to obtain advice with respect to any medical condition or treatment.