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April 29, 2009
Pilot study aims to develop current picture of mental-health trends affecting higher education
The AP (4/21, Armos) reports that "a pilot study released Monday by the Center for the Study of Collegiate Mental Health, at Penn State University" is "a first-of-its kind effort by college counseling centers designed to get an up-to-date picture of mental-health trends affecting higher education," its organizers say.
Currently, "more than 130 schools nationwide are registered with the center. Of them, 66 participated in the initial study, with responses from more than 28,000 students who received mental health services in fall 2008." For the study, "each counseling center asked clients to answer standardized questions, with the data pooled nationally. All data were anonymous."
Ben Locke, executive director of the center, explained, "Mental health affects every aspect of a college student's functioning." He added, "The earlier you intervene in mental health issues, the more likely you are to be successful in treating" them. The data gathered by the study "will further help colleges and universities equip themselves to support students," Locke said.
Posted by admin at April 29, 2009 05:35 PM