Dive Brief:
- A recent Rand Corporation study found public colleges and universities in California saved some $56 million in decreased dropouts after boosting mental health services.
- Expansions to mental health services aren't exclusive to the Golden State, though: The Ohio State University is planning to add 10 more counselors, and a number of institutions have also implemented 24-hour mental health hotlines.
- Additionally, anxiety has now topped depression as the top reason students use campus mental health services, University Business reports.
Dive Insight:
Cornell University Director of Counseling and Psychological Services Greg Eells tells University Business that adding an additional mental health counselor is worth the investment if just one student is retained, comparing a $50,000 salary to a $60,000 annual tuition price tag. The article reports 50% of students have been treated previously for mental health concerns, with 33% taking medication, and the demand is only rising as stigma declines.
Mental healthcare has gained increased attention from the public at large in recent years due to the increased prevalence of mass school shootings. While it isn't a magic solution to the issue, increased availability of such services may well help prevent some future incidents from occurring.