Content Warning: This post includes discussion of suicide.
For some people, college can be the happiest time of their lives: new friends, a new environment, a fresh start, and a whole new life. But for others, maybe even everyone, college can get dark. There are exams, navigating new relationships, being away from family and roots, academic and societal pressure to succeed, and the suffocating feeling of being lost in the world. Sometimes it can just be too much.
According to Active Minds, a national organization that advocates for student mental health, 39% of college students experience a significant mental health issue. Moreover, it has been found that suicide is the second leading cause of death among young adults, after road accidents. While these statistics may be heartbreaking, it’s critical for us to realize that mental health and suicide are extremely prevalent issues not just for Gen Z, but for the world.
Taking care of your mental health as a student is important, even vital. And that has nothing to do with the “good” of your class: seeking professional help should come first, because you’re far too bright to be lost and far more important than a GPA.
In honor of National Suicide Prevention Week, Her Campus is bringing together some of the best mental health resources you can use as a student, beyond the campus counseling center. Because you deserve to look your best, we all do.
1. ULifeline
Navigating mental health resources can be overwhelming, but ULifeline makes it a little easier. Sponsored by the Jed Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides mental health resources to teens and young adults, ULifeline can help you find exactly what mental health services are available on your campus. Using its campus finder, ULifeline populates your school’s resources on one simple page, complete with contact and emergency information.
However, for schools that lack resources, ULifeline also serves as a database for mental health resources. On the site, you can filter resources based on what you might be struggling with or are looking for help with. From alcohol and drug rehabilitation to stress relief services, ULifeline makes college mental health resources easily accessible.
2. Chat Room Student
As someone struggling with anxiety, asking for help has always been a terrifying concept. At the beginning of my mental healing, I couldn’t imagine sitting face to face with a stranger and telling him all my inner thoughts. And while in-person therapy is extremely beneficial, teletherapy can be a great tool for students. Talkspace, a popular teletherapy app, has an exclusive subscription dedicated to students, providing them with accessible mental health resources.
Talkspace student membership is less expensive than their full plan, but still provides students with teletherapy options like counseling, access to a psychiatrist, and more. With Talkspace you will have the ability to message your therapist whenever you need help or just need someone to talk to.
3. NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS (NAMI)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides services to anyone who may have mental health issues. Breaking new ground with its three-digit 988 hotline, NAMI is staffed with mental health professionals and counselors to help those in crisis.
Besides the Mental Health Helpline, NAMI is home to a variety of support groups and other therapy options. On their site, you can use their search tool to find a NAMI group or affiliate near you. These NAMI centers can give you access to free specialized classes and events to help improve your mental health.
4. CRISIS TEXT LINE
When you’re in crisis, it can be difficult to say the words “I need help” out loud. The Crisis Text Line is a 24/7 hotline that gives you access to mental health professionals from your mobile phone and WhatsApp. A qualified crisis counselor will respond to you instantly and provide you with the tools and resources you may need in the event of a crisis.
To access the hotline, simply test HOME at 74174 from anywhere in the United States. The Crisis Text Line also offers a variety of services and other resources for any mental health issues you may be struggling with, such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, etc.
5. AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION (AFSP)
Finally, the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is a specialized database on suicidal thoughts and their prevention. This site can provide you with the tools to find a mental health professional near you and offers resources for a variety of demographics and communities.
Whether you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend, have lost a loved one, or are a suicide survivor, AFSP can provide you with specialist groups and connect you with professionals to help you. in your mental health journey.
Struggling with your mental health, you may feel alone, especially when you begin to struggle with suicidal thoughts. And while the thought of asking for help may seem daunting, always remember that there are resources to help you or a loved one at any time of the day. We love how the world spins with you on it.
If you or someone you know is looking for help for mental health issues, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264) or the new National Hotline, 988. For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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