Mental health resources at SoCal universities are being stretched thin due to increased anxiety, depression and other issues among students.
According to a recent survey conducted by USC Center for Health Reporting and Southern California News Group, there’s been an increased demand for counseling sessions on college campuses in the past five years. And that rise has surpassed enrollment growth.
As reported by SoCal News Group, a Cal State Long Beach police officer even recounted witness a student attempting to throw himself off of a campus parking structure.
So what’s the cause? Social media may be a factor, but many students struggle with immigration issues, gender identity, socioeconomic factors and relationship problems. Larry speaks to a reporter on the story and a university counselor to find out more.
Guests:
Claudia Boyd-Barrett, writer for the Center for Health Reporting at USC; she co-authored “Students in Crisis: On Campus, record numbers seek mental health”
Jonna Fries, Psy.D., psychologist and director of counseling and psychological services at Cal State L.A.