QUINCY (WGEM) – Culver-Stockton College (CSC) tries to be proactive about student well-being.
The department said it was responding to the growing need for mental health support for young people across the country.
Students were given the opportunity to tie green bandanas to their backpacks.
This is to let other students know that you are important and that you have support when it comes to your mental health.
They launched the Green Bandana Project on Friday to address student mental health.
From the pandemic to being educated away from home, CSC students like senior Caitlin Felt say they face tough challenges to deal with.
“Just like dealing with the problems that arose during COVID, but also adapting to them, it can be a little bit difficult after the pandemic,” said Felt.
More than 65 people heard the pleas and calls to action of students across the country during the presentation of the Green Bandana Project.
“The Bandana Project is essentially a national suicide prevention resource for students,” said Jill Miller, Director of Counseling and Wellness Services at CSC. “Students are basically wearing green bandanas and tying them around their textbook bags, showing that they are fellow mental health advocates.”
Miler said he saw 226 students last year alone in one semester.
“I was seeing six to eight students a day,” Miller says. “We have seen a huge increase in the number of people who need services for mental health. Universities across the country are saying the same thing.”
Miller said she created a mental health task force to help students navigate through the challenges they face.
“Virtual Care Groups is a new thing we have implemented and yes we are partnered with Blessing. ‘ said Miller.
Felt said he saw a need on campus and decided to create his own club to help his peers.
“Mostly it’s about holding specific events to address mental health awareness, so some ideas were things like self-care bingo and exercise classes,” says Felt. He writes notes during the meeting and wants to put them on campus. “
Students were also given a card informing them of all available resources. Such as her 24/7 access to the Crisis Hotline via Virtual Care Group and free visits to celebrate health services.
“They carry around a few resource cards for their students for mental health. Please ask,” said Miller.
According to the Mayo Clinic, 44% of college students report having symptoms of depression and anxiety since the start of the pandemic. 75% of these students are reluctant to ask for help.
If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also text “HELLO” or “NAMI” to the Crisis Text hotline (741741).
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