Today@Sam Article

SHSU Joins JED Campus Mental Health Initiative

Sept. 18, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd

Sam Houston State University is taking significant steps to enhance the mental health and well-being of its students by joining the JED Campus program, a national initiative dedicated to improving mental health, preventing suicides and reducing substance abuse on college campuses. This four-year strategic collaboration with the Jed Foundation emphasizes SHSU’s commitment to fostering a supportive campus environment where students can thrive.

“The well-being of our students is at the heart of our mission. Partnering with the JED Campus program allows us to take a comprehensive and proactive approach to addressing mental health and wellness on our campus,” said Dannie Moore, vice president for Student Affairs. 

The decision to become a JED Campus was made in response to alarming statistics about student mental health across the nation. Almost half of the college students surveyed reported experiencing depression, and 38% have been diagnosed with anxiety. Additionally, 83% of students indicated that mental health issues have adversely affected their academic performance. A quarter have seriously contemplated suicide, marking an urgent need for comprehensive mental health support on college campuses.

“Student supports for mental health are more important than ever,” said SHSU President Alisa White. “I’m proud of the emphasis Student Affairs places on the ‘whole student’ at Sam Houston State.” 

Recognizing this crucial need, SHSU has formed a dedicated task force comprised of faculty, staff and students from across the university. The team is supported by a JED campus advisor and will work to assess, strengthen and implement policies and programs that prioritize student wellness.

“The well-being and safety of our students is our highest priority. Through our partnership with the Jed Foundation, we are committed to fostering a campus environment that nurtures students' mental health and wellness,” said Lindsey Lopez, director of Student Wellness and co-chair of the task force. “Additionally, we are ensuring that students have access to the resources necessary for both academic and personal success.”

To further support this initiative, SHSU has been awarded a $42,000 grant from the WoodNext Foundation. This funding will help cover the costs associated with implementing the JED Campus program, enabling SHSU to make meaningful changes that will positively impact students’ mental health.

Beginning this fall, the task force will launch the Healthy Minds Survey to gather insights into student mental health needs and attitudes. The JED campus advisor will be meeting with the task force in Spring 2025 to review the survey results and identify trends in the responses. The team will then formulate a strategic plan to guide the development of enhanced services and initiatives, ensuring that SHSU students have the support they need to navigate their mental health journey.

For more information on SHSU’s involvement with the JED Campus program, visit the JED Campus webpage and SHSU’s JED Campus page.

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