College can be an adjustment period for many people. Whether it takes getting used to being away from home or having an increased workload things can take a toll on one’s mental health. Listed below are mental health resources for college students that can help relieve some of the pressure college may bring and provide healthy coping mechanisms for mental health.
- College Counseling Center: Many colleges and universities have a counseling center available for students seeking help for their mental health among other services. These are safe spaces for students to receive help with any problems that may be affecting their academic performance. Information about these centers can typically be found on the schools website under student services or resources.
- Crisis Text Line: A free 24/7 support line to aid those in a crisis by providing a welcoming safe space to talk and if need be receive information on additional help. Text HOME to 741741 to be connected with a trained counselor within five minutes. You can text them through the message app on your phone, through the chat feature on their website, or download WhatsApp from your App Store.
- Active Minds: This is a nationwide nonprofit organization, with chapters located on college campuses throughout the United States. Each chapter is student led and promotes young adults supporting their peers. They give students the opportunity to speak about their mental health and have support in a school setting.
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): ADAA is a free anonymous online community where you can speak with your peers and connect with those that have similar experiences. Four different online communities are available for you to join, including a Spanish speaking support group. The different communities have over 80,00 subscribers from 174 countries across the globe.
- The Jed Foundation: A program designed to help students recognize and overcome mental health problems within themselves and others around them. They provide both mental health and substance abuse services for students in need across the country. Their resource center can help students process their feelings adequately and find the right support they need.
- The Trevor Project: A free confidential resource available to LGBTQ students 24/7. Crisis counselors are available to talk through calls, chats, or text messages. This organization also provides TrevorSpace, which is a platform for ages 13-24 to make friends and support each other online.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): One of the nation’s largest mental health organizations that has been around since 1979. They created the Teen and Young Adult (T&YA) Helpline, which is a free nationwide support service available Monday through Friday 10:00am- 10:00pm ET. Along with the helpline, students can find support groups near them to receive help on their journeys.
- The Steve Fund: One of the only national organizations dedicated to promoting both the emotional well being and the mental health of people of color. The organization provides programs throughout communities to assist in understanding the struggles students face at school. Other resources include the SpeakOnIt! Podcast and discussion videos about managing mental health.
- Vibrant Emotional Health: Vibrant is a part of an innovative community that provides crisis services, community programs, and advocacy for mental health care. The organization is based in New York, however all help lines are available to the general public.
- Emotions Anonymous: A nonprofit organization that utilizes the 12 step program derived from alcohol anonymous to improve the mental well being of individuals. Although this program can benefit those recovering from addiction, it also gives support to those experiencing emotional difficulties in their lives. Meetings are hosted both in person and remotely online for people to access internationally.
The transition to college can be difficult. We want to remind you that you are not alone and encourage to ask for help when you need it.
For more resources for college students: