Wright State University has teamed up with local colleges and major hospitals to improve mental health care for college students through the new College Age Intensive Outpatient Program. This initiative aims to help students aged 18 to 24 who need more support than regular outpatient therapy can provide.
Mental health issues like anxiety and depression have surged among college students in recent years. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, nearly 60% of college students report feeling overwhelming anxiety. This program seeks to address that very crisis.
Participants in the program receive personalized treatment and services designed to promote positive changes. They take part in group therapy for nine to 12 hours weekly, typically for four to six weeks. Each student also meets one-on-one with a therapist and can involve their families if needed.
Wright State University President Sue Edwards emphasizes the importance of this collaboration, saying, “By connecting students to specialized, high-quality care, we can help them manage their mental well-being.” This support aims to keep students engaged and successful in their studies.
The program is initially based at Kettering Health Behavioral Medical Center, with expansion plans to Premier Health within the next year. Students can enter the program through self-referral or recommendations from university counselors or emergency services.
The university is also enhancing its mental health resources by hiring more licensed psychologists and offering Mental Health First Aid training for faculty and staff. This training helps staff members recognize signs of distress and guide students toward professional help.
Moreover, Wright State’s Health and Wellness Task Force is committed to fostering a supportive culture. They are implementing initiatives focused on mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention, striving to ensure no one faces these challenges alone.
The program is a crucial step in meeting the urgent mental health needs of college students today. For more details about the College Age Intensive Outpatient Program, you can visit Kettering Health or call 937-534-4600, option three.
