Mental health is a key ingredient in the recipe for academic achievement.
Yet, in the past ten years, depression and anxiety among college students has risen
precipitously. Partner with us to help students identify, normalize, and destigmatize
mental health issues so they can stay on the path to academic and career success.
American college students are in crisis.
Across the country, the rate of college students reporting a mental health diagnosis
is on the rise. The reasons for the sharp increase are varied and legitimate. From
academic burnout caused by the increased competition to get into college to social
media and the 24/7 news cycle that seems to offer little hope for the future, the
stresses of adulthood have only become more pronounced.
Our students, who are working to gain independence and self-sufficiency in one of
the most expensive housing and competitive job markets in the world, face additional
stress. Those struggling to understand their sexual orientation and gender and those
experiencing challenges specific to their race or ethnic identities can feel particularly
overwhelmed and vulnerable.
Our proactive approach
We know that mental and emotional well-being is essential to our students’ long-term
health and success. That’s why from the moment a student enrolls, sometimes for the
first time in their lives, they have access to free, confidential, one-on-one counseling
as well as no-cost mental health screening for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder,
substance abuse and other mental health issues that can stand in the way of their
wellbeing. We encourage students to seek counseling whether their concerns are big
or small so that they can develop the tools they need to stay on track during their
time on campus and beyond.
1/3
Less than 1/3 of young adults 18-24 suffering from anxiety or depression seek treatment.
#2
Death by suicide is the second leading cause of death among young adults.
60%
60% of American college students have a mental health diagnosis.
Health plays a huge role in student achievement. Unhealthy students are more likely
to miss class and struggle academically, which then leads to lower retention and success
rates. Our on-campus clinics provide basic health care and help connect students to the community
resources available to meet their larger health needs.
Far too many uninsured and low-income young adults suffer from illness or chronic disease that goes unchecked or undiagnosed because
they simply cannot afford to see a doctor. Your support opens the door to quality
health services for our students, and connects them to a broader network of trusted partners there to help them stay healthy and on track to meeting their academic
and career goals.
Your gifts help us provide the following clinical services to any student in need,
at no-cost.
Lab tests and blood pressure checks
Vaccinations such as MMR, Tdap, Hep B, Flu, HPV
Condoms, pregnancy tests, and emergency contraception
First Aid, symptomatic care, and prescription medication for things like urinary tract
infection, sexually transmitted infection, strep infection and more.
Basic needs items such as oral hygiene, shampoo, conditioner, and soap.
Help us serve every student who walks through our door
The stigma surrounding mental health issues can keep our students from accessing the
powerful, life-saving resources we offer. To normalize and destigmatize mental health
issues, Mission College launched Mental Health Mondays, a 12-week campaign to spread
awareness and to offer practical tools to help students on their journey to emotional
wellbeing. Weekly clases led by our Health Services counselors cover issues relevant
to our students, including transitioning from isolation back to school, understanding
and accepting the value of their emotions, the importance of rituals, practicing gratitude,
and setting healthy boundaries.