College Mental Health

Across the country, students are preparing to begin or return to college. It is a time of learning, growth and enjoying the social atmosphere that thrives on campuses. Most students can balance the mix of academic and social activities, though pressure to participate in binge drinking, drinking large quantities of alcohol most nights during the week, and drinking to feel like the part of the crowd are common occurrences.

“Most students do not connect alcohol abuse with a potential mental health issue,” said Rachel Glick, M.D., American Psychiatric Association (APA) Presidential Task Force on Mental Health on College Campuses co-chair. “If a student feels that alcohol has become a problem, it is important seek care so they can have a healthy mind and lead a healthy life.”

APA would like to offer information to help college students understand issues around alcohol abuse and maintain good mental health.

College Students and Alcohol Abuse Statistics

College Mental Health Fact Sheet: Depression

Disasters: Mental Health Recommendations for Students and Colleges

Eating Disorders: Tips for College Students

APA Expert Opinion: College Mental Health

Links:
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
The Jed Foundation
Screening for Mental Health: College Response
Active Minds on Campus
College Drinking Prevention
American College Health Association
Columbia University's TeenScreen Program
American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Mental Health Association
National Institute of Mental Health
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
GotAnxiety.org

Resources:
Suicide Prevention Film
A film aimed at preventing suicide among college students is now available from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The Truth About Suicide: Real Stories of Depression in College provides information about depression, including its symptoms and association with suicide, and encourages students to seek help if they suspect they have problem. The film is available in both DVD and BHS formats and comes with a facilitator’s guide containing supplementary resource materials and recommendations for using the film effectively on campus. Orders may be placed by calling (888) 333-AFSP ext 10. The cost is $19.95, including shipping and handling. More information and resources are posted online at www.afsp.org/collegefilm.