As the mental health crisis among college students continues to rise across the United States. Averett University is working to address these unique challenges their students face. The pressures of academic life, social integration and personal responsibilities have a profound impact on the mental well-being of students. For many, this can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. At Averett, faculty, staff, and students are coming together to tackle these issues head on with robust support systems resources, and a commitment to raising awareness about mental health.
College life can be a time of growth and excitement, but is also often marked by stress and uncertainty. For Angel Pascual-Roman, a sports med student and a midfielder for the men’s lacrosse team, balancing sports and school can be a tough challenge.
“For me, in general, I’ve never really been good at balancing and managing my time or activities so it forces me to plan ahead and think about when I’m gonna do my homework, when I have to be at practice, when I have to leave to make it on time to practice, etc.” Pascual-Roman said. “At first coming into college and jumping into a whole new rhythm it can be very difficult and you may become stressed or overwhelmed, you just need to slowly get adjusted to it and never hesitate on communicating with someone if you have any doubts or worries.”
Recognizing the importance of mental health and well-being, Averett offers several resources to support students through their academics and personal challenges. The university’s Counseling Services provide both individual and group counseling to students in need. These confidential services are designed to help students navigate the stresses of college life, whether they are struggling with academic pressure, relationships, or personal struggles.
“We offer a safe, confidential, and non judgemental space where you can explore your concerns, develop coping strategies, and enhance your overall wellness,” Dr. Atticia Bundy, director of counseling services, said.
In addition to traditional counseling options, students can access mental health support remotely. This option has become increasingly important in recent years, especially for students who may face barriers such as transportation issues, busy schedules, or health concerns.
In addition to ongoing counseling services, Averett has protocols in place for students in crisis situations. If students are experiencing severe mental health emergencies, they are encouraged to contact the 24/7 Danville-Pittsylvania community services crisis line at 434-793-4922 or call 911 for immediate assistance. The university’s security team and residence life staff are also trained to respond in such situations, ensuring that students receive the help they need in moments of distress.
The green bandana project is a club and organization that centers around student athlete mental health. The objective of the green bandana project is to raise awareness for student athlete mental health and to allow those student athletes to know they aren’t alone in the fight against a hidden opponent. Students who wear green bandana as a part of this project symbolize their willingness to be a source of support for peers who may be struggling with mental health challenges. The green bandana serves as a visual cue to others that the wearer is a safe, non judgmental person to approach for help or to talk to. The project was implemented through the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, also known as SAAC. At Averett, the student athlete representatives take a course to ensure they are prepared to help anyone who may need assistance.
“We understand that as athletes, we may not feel like anyone wants to hear our mental health struggles, but the bandana project was a way to show that there are people that care and want to hear your voice,” Olivia Garden, co-president of SAAC, said.
Gardner is finishing up her senior year at Averett as a captain on the women’s basketball team and a senior resident assistant.
As Averett University continues to address the mental health needs of its students, it is clear that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The month of May is mental health awareness month as Averett works diligently to ensure its students don’t fight alone. Mental health is complex, and each student’s experience is unique. However, through Averett’s counseling services, emergency protocols, and awareness initiatives, the university is taking steps in the right direction to ensure that students have the resources they need to succeed; not just academically, but emotionally and mentally as well.
