About the Author
Crystal Primeau McLeod, MA, LLP
Director, Center for Student Mental Health and Well-being
Conversations about college mental health often focus on students’ struggles and experiences of distress. Understanding how many students are experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and other concerns is important for identifying their needs and determining where resources and support are most needed.
But mental health is more than the absence of mental illness.
Even without significant symptoms of depression or anxiety, a student may experience loneliness, disconnection, a lack of direction, or a sense of unfulfillment. Conversely, a student living with a mental health condition can also experience purpose, meaningful relationships, accomplishment, and hope.
This is where the idea of flourishing becomes important.
