INTRODUCTION

Houghton University is committed to supporting and developing the mental health and well-being of their students. When thinking about the health and well-being of students, we often refer directly to their physical health as a primary focus and might view mental health as a secondary focus; however, it should be viewed as extremely important. Since there is a close relationship between physical and mental health, it is imperative that we think of these mental health issues in the same sense that we think of "physical injury" to the student. We also know that physical injuries may result in mental health issues of their own.

"Inter-Association Consensus Document: Best Practices for Understanding and Supporting Student-Athlete Mental Wellness" ("Best Practices") is a practical extension of the NCAA publication "Mind, Body and Sport: Understanding and Supporting Student-Athlete Mental Wellness". These "Best Practices" are designed to provide athletics and sports medicine departments – regardless of size and resources – with recommendations for supporting and promoting student-athlete mental health. "Best Practices" are accompanied by a checklist (Appendix D) of the key components for each athletics department.

NCAA Mental Health Resources

On-Campus Resources 

Houghton University Counseling Services
 
Campus Health Center

Free confidential online screening for depression, alcohol, and eating disorders which can help you decide whether a consultation with a counselor would be helpful.

Knowing When to Ask for Help 

Signs and symptoms of someone struggling with mental health could include (but are not limited to):

• Increase/decrease in eating or sleeping habits
• Withdraw from social interactions
• Lack of enjoyment in things they once enjoyed
• Problems with concentration, focus or remembering
• Anger or irritability
• Change in or struggle in academic performance
• Extreme changes in mood or behavior
• increase in alcohol/substance use

The counseling Center is equipped and ready to help with things such as...

• Anxiety
• Performance Anxiety
• Panic Attacks
• Depression
• Alcohol and Substance use
• Disordered Eating
• Sleep Difficulties
• Trauma
• ADHD
• Strengths Coaching
• Adjustments to College
• Grief/Loss
• Relationship Challenges (roommate, friend, parent, etc.)
• General Mental Health and Wellness
• & more

If you are not sure whether you are interested in receiving support, you can go to the Counseling Center for a walk-in session or a consultation.

Additionally, you can take a free mental health assessment.

Crisis Resources
 

Safety and Security: 585-567-9333

Crisis Text Line (24/7 free and confidential): Text "hello" to 741-741

988 Lifeline (24/7 free and confidential): Text or call 988