College years can be some of the most stressful times of one’s life. The worry of financial aid, academics, and the upkeep of a social life combined can have serious effects on a college student. Today, many college mental health facilities are filled with students suffering from mental health illnesses, including suicide.
According to the National Center for the Prevention of Youth Suicide, self-immolation is a leading cause of death among youth attending colleges and universities. Among the general population of young adults ages 18-24, suicide is the second leading cause of death. A survey conducted by the National Survey of College Counseling Centers found that an average of 1,800 students sought individual or group counseling for mental health related issues at universities with more than 15,000 students.
Vivian Barnette, executive director of Counseling Services said that she has seen a lot of students on this campus suffering from suicidal thoughts.
“Across the nation there is a trend where students are coming to school with more complex issues,” said Barnette. “Some students have been treated previously before getting to school and some students have never been treated.”
Barnette said that most students, who will have a mental health problem, would develop it or experience it between the ages of 18 to 25.
Majesty Purvis, a junior psychology student said that in her classes she is being taught the effects of mental health instability on college students.
“I have learned that students with mental health issues on college campuses may resort to alcohol or substances to make them feel like their problems are going away. Other students may deal with mental health issues by staying to themselves or simply taking it out on other people.”
The American College Health Association’s National College Health Assessment found that 43.9 percent of students reported having five or more drinks in one sitting at least once during the two weeks prior to completing the survey and that around half that number also consume alcohol on three or more occasions per week.
Students also reported that suicidal behavior was a consequence of drinking.
As far as treating students with suicidal tendencies, Barnette said that her staff offers a variety of theoretical orientations.
“In our office we have a variety of people experienced in various disciplines such as social work and counseling. We use processes such as cognitive therapy, interpersonal processes and psychoanalysis,” explained Barnette. “But the main goal is to get the person to learn how to cope better. We want to teach them how to replace negative thinking and learn how to find hope.”
Barnette said that if her staff is unable to assist a student, they are referred to the behavioral health and wellness unit or other private practitioners who may be of better assistance.
A survey conducted by Counseling Services found that its patients benefited greatly from the assistance being provided. Barnette said students felt that counseling made a positive impact upon their ability to stay in school. “We are retaining students through doing this type of work.”
Barnette urges students to take advantage of the free services that are offered to them. “It is confidential and it is free. Although the issue could be small, it could have an impact that would impede their progress in school. We do a really good job of helping people stay on track and do well in college.”
- LACI OLLISON, Register Reporter