(Rachel Claytor/MNS)
WASHINGTON –Campus therapists and psychologists report more students seeking treatment than ever before, according to a study recently released by the University of Michigan. But many experts point out that this statistic doesn’t necessarily translate to more students struggling with mental health issues. Rather younger generations are just feeling more comfortable reaching out for help.
“This generation is willing to talk about this far more than older generations,” said Alison Marmon.
In 2001 Marmon founded Active Minds, with the mission to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting awareness on college campuses. Today the student-run organization has more than 220 chapters nation-wide. Marmon was inspired to start Active Minds after her brother Brian committed suicide while struggling with schizophrenia.
“It terrified me because I realized how little I knew about it,” Marmon said.
Transitioning from high school to college can be tough, said Dr. Sabrina Crawford, an assistant director at American University’s counseling center. She said in college students find their support systems changing from family to friends in a new environment.
“Often the first person a student struggling with mental health issues will turn to is a friend,” Crawford said.
Marmon hopes Active Minds can help increase awareness among students and encourage earlier treatment and recovery.