PEORIA (25News Now) – An Illinois law will expand mental health services at public colleges and universities beginning in the new year.
The Higher Education Mental Health Action Act aims to enhance on-campus mental health services at public colleges as an extension of the state’s Mental Health Early Action Plan.
Illinois Central College received $90,000 from the state as part of the initiative earlier this year.
The college implemented a stepped care module to provide students with wellness activities, like a de-stress week, along with training staff on mental health first aid.
“The act was a result of recognizing that, culturally, one, there are more students in distress, and two, they are more willing to talk about their mental health needs and participate in those wellness activities,” said Dr. Jon C. Neidy, Vice President of Student Success at Illinois Central College.
Neidy said around 50% of ICC students have used the school’s various mental health programs. The college typically sees higher stress levels during finals, at the beginning, and at the end of each academic year.
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