1. Creating a Culture of High-Level Wellness to Combat the College Mental Health Crisis
- Author
-
Monique Dowd
- Abstract
The college mental health crisis continues to worsen across American campuses. According to the Healthy Minds Network (2020) Fall 2020 survey, 50% of undergraduate college students screened positive for two mental disorders; anxiety and/or depression. Due to this increased prevalence, many institutions of higher education (IHE) have not been able to keep up with the demands of counseling and psychological services (CAPS). The dramatic increase in college student enrollment over the last several decades has also contributed to the short supply of mental health services. Several other statistics support the notion of this nationwide epidemic, as there has been an increase in the prevalence of both attempted suicides and suicides across U.S. college campuses. Despite this evidence, there is limited research on how universities are responding to this growing crisis. This study used person-centered qualitative research at two 4-year universities that provide specific proactive and innovative wellness strategies to combat the college mental health crisis. These strategies highlight the need for prevention and/or early intervention, cultural competency, and the thoughtful integration of technology to enhance student wellness. Resiliency training is also vital in equipping students with the necessary tools to navigate the stresses of campus life. Additionally, the recommendation to revisit the concept of in loco parentis and to involve parents in the wellness journey reflects a modern understanding of family dynamics and the role of external support systems in student well-being. Effective leadership and governance, particularly the strategic appointment of a chief wellness officer coupled with stable leadership in the Office of Student Affairs, are critical to the centralization and successful implementation of wellness initiatives. Financial and resource allocations and institutional culture shifts can ensure these measures are sustainable and ingrained in the university fabric. Strategic alliances and the alignment of institutional missions underscore the importance of collaborative efforts and a shared vision in creating a culture of wellness. Data-informed decision-making and communication strategies are essential for assessing the effectiveness of initiatives and for keeping the campus community informed and engaged. Faculty accountability and involvement, along with the development of theoretical wellness frameworks, support a campus-wide culture shift that integrates wellness into all aspects of university life. Finally, student involvement in the decision-making and feedback processes ensures the measures taken truly reflect and are responsive to the needs of all students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
- Published
- 2024