Point Park University is stepping up its game in mental health support on campus. Cassandra Moffat, the director of the university’s counseling center, shared the goal: “We want to make mental health visible and part of everyday life here.” This initiative seeks to make lasting changes to how students access mental health resources.
According to the latest survey from the American College Health Association, about 77% of college students nationwide report experiencing moderate to severe psychological distress. Moffat noted a rising trend in anxiety, depression, and burnout among students. “These issues have become more prominent since the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
At Point Park, the counseling center has already seen 6,294 visits from 784 students since fall 2022, covering everything from crisis appointments to therapy sessions. Moffat pointed out that being a liberal arts school can bring its own unique stressors for students.
The Let’s Talk initiative aims to reach more students in need. To boost this, resident assistants and staff are being trained in QPR—Question, Persuade, and Refer—suicide prevention strategies. Moffat explained, “We want to equip people to have conversations about suicide.” This kind of training can help students find hope and connection when they need it most.
Point Park’s upcoming plans include expanding crisis services and increasing outreach. “A simple conversation can remind students they’re not alone,” Moffat said. The initiative is backed by a $50,000 grant from the Citrone 33 Foundation, which will support these efforts for the next two years.
Moffat attributes the growing need for support not just to the isolation during the pandemic but also to the pressures of social media and the constant comparisons it brings. “Many of us aren’t taught how to cope with anxiety or when to ask for help,” she noted.
Fostering mental well-being can lead to better results for students, including higher retention rates and academic success. The expansion of mental health services may also enhance Point Park’s recent recognition as a PA Cares Campus, acknowledging its commitment to mental health and suicide prevention.
Feedback from students and faculty will be an essential part of shaping the initiative to fit the campus community. “We want to adapt based on what students really need,” Moffat said.
This growing emphasis on mental health isn’t just a trend; it reflects a broader societal shift in how we view and address mental health issues. As we move forward, personal stories, university initiatives, and community support will play critical roles in creating a space where students feel safe to seek help.
