College & Graduate Student Mental Health

College life can be a significant transition period for many students, as they navigate academic demands, social pressures, new environments, and increased independence. These factors can contribute to mental health issues or exacerbate existing ones. For many college students, this may be the first time they seek out care, so it is crucial that their experience is a positive one.

Graduate students also face unique challenges and stressors that can impact their mental health, including demanding workloads, academic pressure, isolation, financial concerns, and the expectation to produce original research or complete a thesis/dissertation

The bottom line is that student mental health is worsening. According to a national survey conducted by the American College Health Association in 2021, nearly 75% of students reported moderate or severe psychological distress. According to the Healthy Minds Study, which collected data from 373 campuses during the 2020-2021 school year, more than 60% of college students met the criteria for at least one mental health diagnosis. Notably, this trend is not confined to the pandemic, as the number of students seeking help at college counseling centers increased by almost 40% between 2009 and 2015 and has only continued to rise (Penn State University’s Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH)).

Unfortunately, college and university campuses may not be able to handle this increasing demand. A student may be seen once, but the resources do not exist to offer continued long-term support. Rappore’s psychiatrists and therapists are experts at treating college and graduate students and understand their unique mental health needs. They recognize the importance of addressing any self destructive thinking and behavioral patterns

The most common psychiatric disorders in the college and graduate student population that we see and treat include: depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, eating disorders, insomnia and sleep disorders, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction and substance use disorders. Our clinicians work with college and graduate students to come up with a personalized treatment plan that combines therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication when appropriate.

We can also work directly with college and university advisors and counselors to support students' mental health.