Mental Health & College

Transcription

1 Mental Health & College

2 Importance? The Overall landscape Statistics in the United States Approximately 18.5% of Adults in America experience mental illness; that s 1 in 5 adults Approximately 4% of adults experience a serious mental illness that substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities; that s 1 in 25 adults Approximately 21.4% of youth, ages 13-18, experience severe mental disorder at some point during their life; that s 1 in 5 youth Just over half of children with a mental health condition, ages 8-15, received mental health services in the past year Lack of Treatment Individuals living with serious mental illness face an increased risk of having chronic medical conditions If left untreated, it can lead to more severe symptoms 2

3 Mental health issues are becoming more prevalent in the college setting, which is why it is important for students and concerned family members to be familiar with it. -Adapted from Collegestats ( Your student got into the university they ve always wanted to attend. But teens on campus are often finding a vastly different view once they arrive, especially in regards to the demands and challenges of college academics and life. A study published in the Medical Journal of Depression and Anxiety found that mounting expectations, evolving sense of self-identity, the shock of leaving home and being in a brand new place make students more susceptible to mental health risks, including suicide. The study surveyed over 67,000 college students from over 100 college campuses about their stress, anxiety, and depression. The results: 3/4 reported they re stressed, 1/5 had thoughts of suicide, 1/10 attempted suicide - Lead author, Cindy Liu, PhD, Psychologist of Brigham & Women s Hospital 3

4 1. The College Landscape according to NAMI 4

5 Common Mental Health Issues: Depression Approx. 44% of students reported symptoms Approx. 75% of students do not seek help Anxiety Suicide 3 rd leading cause of death among college students Eating Disorders Addiction 5

6 Anxiety: Normal vs. Cause for Concern Feeling anxious is completely normal. College is not easy and college students undergo stress. However, when students feel that their anxeity is affecting their quality of living, this is when students should consult with a mental health specialist or counselor to figure out the best soluations Anxiety and Depression Association of America 6

7 Things to consider while in High School Size! It may or may not matter. Pros and Cons Smaller classes 2. Teaching done by professors 3. Commitment to teaching 4. School work evaluated more carefully 5. Chances to write papers. Increased skill 6. One-on-one contact with professors 7. Possible freedom in curriculum (explore) 8. Collaborate with professors 9. Less Bureaucracy 10.You matter 7

8 The argument of Big vs. Small adapted from The College Board (creators of the SAT) Big: Possible benefits associated with big colleges. May not be true of all of them: Wide variety of majors and courses Well-stocked libraries Variety of housing opportunities Well-funded sports programs Wide range of academic choices and student activities Distinguished or famous faculty State-of-the-art research facilities Success might depend on a students ability in being a go-getter ; not afraid to speak up and take advantage of the many opportunities available. Small: Possible benefits associated with small colleges. May not be true of all of them: Small class sizes Hands-on learning opportunities Individually designed majors Strong advising system; advisers know students well Strong sense of community Professors, not teaching assistants, teach most courses Opportunity to get to know professors well Small colleges don't offer as many majors; however, this gives you a chance to explore a variety of things. 8

9 How to help... Try to normalize the college experience and the stressors involved. It is critical to think about their identity, and how that matters to their complete mental health experience. - Lead author, Cindy Liu, PhD, Psychologist of Brigham & Women s Hospital 9

10 Examples of Colleges with Wellness Centers... 10