By College of Arts and Sciences Communications staff
Mental health is a critical concern for students navigating the complexities of college life. Washington State University and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) recognizes its responsibility to support students extends beyond academic achievement and into fostering their overall well-being. To contribute to this effort, CAS has launched a Mental Health Initiative (MHI) that encourages training for faculty and staff to better recognize signs of mental health issues and on how to guide students toward appropriate resources.
Nationally, nearly 60% of college students report experiencing overwhelming anxiety, and approximately 40% struggle with depression. At WSU, around 10% of students seek support from the university’s Counseling and Psychological Services with anxiety, depression, and academic stress cited as the most common issues. It is understood that there may be a higher percentage who do not seek services but could benefit from them.
“CAS’s Mental Health Initiative is designed to educate faculty and staff with a deeper understanding of mental health concerns students face and to equip them with the tools to support both the student body and each other. The MHI is an extension of student advocacy we can provide during their WSU experience,” said Courtney Meehan CAS interim dean.
A central component of MHI is the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training designed for non-clinicians. Offered by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, a WSU facilitator conducts the eight-hour program teaching participants to identify the signs of mental health issues (such as suicide risk, depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, psychotic disorders, substance use, and eating disorders), to listen without judgment, and how to guide students toward appropriate resources.
“I would recommend everyone go through Mental Health First Aid. As an MHFA instructor, I teach participants how to recognize changes in behavior and provide support for those who are experiencing a mental health challenge. These are consequential skills because mental health challenges are very common, especially on a college campus. When we go through Mental Health First Aid, it strengthens our community,” said Andy Song, Office of the Dean of Students.
This past spring, 79 individuals from the College of Arts and Sciences, including faculty, staff, and students from 12 different departments, completed the MHFA program. This growing network of trained individuals is instrumental in creating a campus culture that prioritizes mental health.
Beyond training, CAS is also integrating innovative practices into classrooms to increase student belonging and wellness. Faculty members, such as Leeann Hunter (Department of English), Julian Dodson (Department of History), Hilary Mellinger (Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology), and Blythe Duell (Department of Psychology), are employing teaching methods that promote students’ welfare. Through inclusive teaching practices, fostering a sense of community, encouraging active collaboration, and incorporating mindfulness and self-compassion, these educators are making a tangible impact on students’ lives.
“The importance of equipping students with strategies to cope with stress and anxiety cannot be overstated. In my courses, I aim to provide practical techniques for managing mental health and to foster a sense of belonging and community among students, who may feel isolated in their struggles. By helping students build a ‘coping toolbox,’ we show our commitment to the holistic well-being of WSU students and empower them with strategies that they can continue to use in college and beyond,” said Professor Blythe Duell, Department of Psychology.
With opportunity for feedback from students, CAS plans to expand efforts and engage additional faculty and staff in mental health training, extend the initiative to graduate students—who are the next generation of faculty—and explore new ways to further incorporate well-being practices into the classroom.
The Mental Health Initiative is a demonstration of the College of Arts and Sciences ongoing commitment to supporting the whole student. By establishing communities of practice among faculty and staff, we are prioritizing mental health and well-being to help ensure that every student at WSU not only succeeds academically but also feels supported, understood, and empowered to thrive.
To sign up for a Mental Health First Aid Training, you can register on the Health Education Website.
The College of Arts and Sciences’ Mental Health Initiative was launched as a result of generous donor support.