College students learning to identify and support mental health struggles

Mental Health Crisis on College Campuses - Mental Health First Aid is a training course designed to teach students how to identify and support individuals struggling with mental health issues [1][3] - The American Council on Education reports that nearly half of college students felt lonely in the spring of 2024 [4] - From 2014 to 2024, the percentage of students struggling with anxiety or depression symptoms increased by 12% and 17%, respectively [5] Mental Health First Aid Program - The program teaches a five-step protocol called ALGEE: Assess, Listen, Give, Encourage professional help, and Encourage self-help [6] - The goal is to train one in every 15 people across the country in Mental Health First Aid [6] - The course has trained over 4 million people so far [7] Factors Contributing to Mental Health Struggles - College students face stressors such as academics, time management, becoming independent, and navigating social relationships [9] - Increased oversight from parents before college may make the transition to independence more difficult [9][10] - Rising college costs contribute to students' concerns about their financial future [10] - Skyrocketing use of social media leads to comparing and despairing, increasing feelings of isolation [10][16] Recommendations for College Students - Lean on friends, family, and partners for support [13] - Utilize 24/7 resources like the text line 741741 and the hotline 988 in times of crisis [14] - Seek in-person support at college counseling centers or emergency rooms to connect with therapists or counselors [14] - Limit social media usage to avoid excessive comparing and feelings of disconnection; the average of eight hours a day is considered unhealthy [16]