Dear Roaring Lion Editorial Team, 

 Feelings of depression and anxiety are extremely common among adolescents attending 
The Pennsylvania State University and has proven to be a prevalent issue within higher 
education. Within The Pennsylvania State University alone, it must be recognized 38% of all students have indicated that they have suffered with depressive feelings most days throughout the past year. With the number of students suffering with mental illnesses, the more it is necessary to implement an effective treatment model within higher education.

As a college student myself, I feel that it is not only necessary but critical to take a stand on this issue and propose a minor yet specific solution to lessen the stigma around college students’ mental health, such as student support structures throughout each campus. There are several reasons why college students suffer with feelings of depression and anxiety during their time spent at university. Some students may struggle with the stress of academia including financial worries, pressure from peers, rigorous course work, and all in all just being ill-prepared for the transition into university. These factors play an important role in the ongoing amounts of stress in which students attending Penn State struggle with and can cause them to spiral into the void of battling with their mental health.

Proposing the solution of offering student support structures such as anonymous online support groups could help students connect with others and know that any stressors in which they’re suffering through, that they’re not alone. This would increase relationships among students and promote a healthy college environment. Implementing a virtual support group in which students can access anonymously to express their mental health needs without disclosing any personal or sensitive information could be beneficial to students who are introverted, antisocial, or just not ready to adjust to expressing their concerns with others verbally.

Being able to access support online can provide students with a healthy alternative for seeking mental health help. I have found that another university has implemented this into their everyday college experience. Kingston University in England runs an extremely beneficial structure for their students in need. A night-time support line is in place for their students to use whenever other resources are unavailable. This service is run completely by highly trained student volunteers that are compliant in giving advice and support to the ones who are struggling with their mental health, all while keeping confidentiality. This resource has significantly helped Kingston University’s students and by adding this element to Penn State, I feel that each student would have peace of mind knowing that their peers are readily available to give them support when other services aren’t available. With over $200 million being spent on student services, I feel that Penn State could easily squeeze this student support structure within their overall expenditure. 

Being a student myself at Penn State, I first-handedly experience the stress that college can put onto you, and by implementing this solution of student support structures can help to lessen the stigma around college students’ mental health. I hope that The Pennsylvania State University takes into consideration this proposal and incorporates this structure within every campus. 

Sincerely,

Heidi K. Anderson

| Class of 2025 | Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus