There is an ongoing myth that students can only receive counseling if they suffer from depression, anxiety or any other type of mental illness.
However, counseling services offered on college campuses provide a wide range of care to students from all walks in life. College students and young adults are seeking counseling more than ever, which is helping raise awareness for mental illness.
College View recently shared an article stating that students who need a caring, loving and objective listener should talk to a college counselor.
The article also stated that everyone can benefit from counseling from time to time whether it’s about career options, roommate struggles, internship opportunities or more serious issues like anxiety and depression.
The article also stressed that when a student comes to receive counseling, they should not see that as a sign of weakness but rather a sign of strength and courage.
Knowing when to ask for help is a sign of self-awareness, and the ability to identify problems that could hurt the future are a sign of personal strength.
I am not new to counseling, depression, anxiety or asking for help on problems I know could not only hurt me, but also my loved ones. I, as a college student, have been receiving counseling for two years from Mississippi State University.
I understand this is a vulnerable topic for most young adults. However, the topic of mental health among young adults is not one that should be hushed or saved for another day.
The large number of students facing depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses should feel free to talk about their issues, and that is exactly what our student counseling service offers.
I am a huge advocate for mental health, being able to identify problems, communicate in healthy ways and creating a better life for those who struggle with mental health issues but are too timid to bring their problems to the surface.
USA Today shared an article claiming 1 in every 10 students is receiving counseling for serious mental health issues on campus.
The article stated counselors are saying the demand for their services, often offered at a nominal price, have been at a record high this year and the mental illnesses they are treating require prescriptions.
The director of student counseling at Miami University, Kip Alishio stated, “The mental health common cold for this generation of students is anxiety disorder, whereas for previous generations it was depression.”
The national student organization, Active Minds, which has a chapter at MSU, also stated the onslaught of mental illness seems to be engulfing this generation.
Nearly half of all college students are saying that they have felt so depressed in the last year it became hard to function, and two-thirds of those who need help do not get any.
Forbes shared an article stressing that decades ago, schools, specifically higher education facilities, have gone through so many dramatic changes that once largely-ignored health and counseling centers can no longer go unnoticed.
The article stated that the demand for health centers are greater and more complex, especially when it comes to the treatment of mental health challenges.
Approximately 1 in 4 students are taking psychotropic drugs, and without them, these students would not be able to attend college and function regularly.
Health centers are vital for students who are dealing with asthma, ADHD, ADD, bulimia, anorexia, autism, physical disabilities and many other serious physical and mental issues.
The article also stated these types of centers can provide safety to students who have been victims of gun violence, rape culture and abuse.
Whether you are a student dealing with a serious mental or physical challenge, or just having a bad day, I highly encourage you to seek help through our counseling and health services.
