MHA Provides New Resources on Student Mental Health

Mental Health America Provides New Resources on Student Mental Health

Back to Campus, Back to School Material Offers Guidance for Students, Parents, Administrators

Contact: Steve Vetzner, (703) 797-2588 or svetzner@mentalhealthamerica.net

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (August 27, 2013)—In recognition of the challenges a new school year presents , Mental Health America is providing new resources on student mental health.

“A student’s mental health is just as important as their general health,” said Wayne W. Lindstrom, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. “We know the start of a new school year can be a stressful time for students all ages. These resources are designed to help everyone—students, parents and administrators—promote good mental health and ensure resources are available.”

A Back to Campus toolkit (http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/back-campus) includes fact sheets for students and information for colleges and universities about what types of services should be in place to address the mental health needs of the student body:

• Checklist for Institutions of Higher Learning—reviews various programs and services that colleges and universities can implement.
• Stressed or Depressed? Know the Difference—looks at the common signs of stress and depression and how they differ.
• Boost Your School Performance by Taking Care of You—provides simple everyday steps for students on taking care of one’s mind as well as body.
• Top Ten Freshman Year Issues (and how to deal with them)—addresses challenges and solutions of the first year in college.
• A Fact Sheet on Alcohol & Substance Use, and Depression
• A Back to School List of Tips (http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/back-school) provides important steps parents can take to support their child as he or she heads back to school.

Mental Health America (www.mentalhealthamerica.net), founded in 1909, is the nation's leading community-based network dedicated to helping all Americans achieve wellness by living mentally healthier lives. With our 240 affiliates across the country, we touch the lives of millions - Advocacy for changes in mental health and wellness policy; Educating the public & providing critical information; and Delivering urgently needed mental health and wellness Programs and Services.

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