Understanding College Mental Health
/In spring 2017, the American College Health Association’s National College Health Assessment reported that almost 40 percent of students in the last year felt a level of depression that made it difficult to function. Juggling academics, social pressure and more independent decision making can be overwhelming. It is understandable that all of this change can take a toll on a student’s mental health. Dr. Elfant did her final years of doctoral training at Vanderbilt University’s Psychological and Counseling Center. A portion of Dr. Elfant’s practice continues to be devoted to seeing college age students. Her office is within walking distance of both Tulane University and Loyola University New Orleans.
What You Should Know About College Mental Health
It sounds counterintuitive that the time of life many describe as, “the best of times” can feel like the hardest and darkest of times. Here are a few things to remember when thinking about college mental health.
College is a Time of Major Change
We are all vulnerable to anxiety and depression during a time of change. Adjustment to college is just that. Therefore, it makes a sense that students require more outside support during college. Mental health professionals can assist undergraduates with managing new emotions, new relationships and new academic pressures.
More Universities Are Expanding Resources for College Mental Health
The Center for Collegiate Mental Health 2015 Annual Report gathered data from 93 institutions between 2009 and 2015. The study found that on average, the growth in number of students seeking services at counseling centers was 29.6 percent, which is more than 5 times the rate of institutional enrollment (5.6 percent). Demand for college mental health resources at institutions across the country is clearly stronger than ever before and institutions are responding accordingly. Colleges and Universities are also adopting unique settings as they take the time to grow larger buildings and spaces to treat mental health. Virginia Tech University has opened up counseling clinics in coffee shops and other university hubs.
College is an Ideal Time to Work on Yourself
During the college years, you have the freedom to explore new topics of study, new interests and new kinds of people. College is supposed to be when you fall down, get back up, and continuously learn. Mental health professionals are one way to gather support in balancing all of the changes you are facing.
Contact Dr. Arian Elfant
Dr. Arian Elfant is an Uptown, New Orleans-based therapist who specializes in the treatment of numerous mental health conditions. Her private practice is located near Tulane University and Loyola University New Orleans. Dr. Elfant has been practicing in New Orleans for 15 years. Contact her with your questions online or call her at (504) 319 - 6800.