Physical & Mental Health

The machines are the latest harm-reduction strategy on college campuses and give students easy access to Narcan, the overdose-reversing drug, and other related items that can save lives.

The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill offers free rides for students seeking counseling and therapy care through a Lyft partnership, increasing access to care.

More college officials and state lawmakers are addressing this once-taboo issue. Some colleges already provided free menstrual products for students, and many are increasingly being required by law to do so.

The University of New Hampshire received $400,000 from the state to launch an alternative support group, benefiting as many as 100 students in the first year.

Students have long played a role in supporting their peers’ mental health on campus. Now some are getting paid for their work—and helping to meet the growing demand.

In January, Hollins University hosted a short course to support students needing healing and support from trauma. The course included activities led by community partners for environmental and spiritual wellness.

In 2022, Fort Lewis College launched its first housing assistance program to provide financial assistance and support for learners struggling with basic needs insecurity. The program has benefited from community and nonprofit support.

Many colleges welcome therapy dogs to campus to support students, especially during exam times, but measuring the impact is less common. A recent pilot study found therapy dogs can decrease student stress when they are present in the classroom throughout the term.