Ways to improve Mental health
Improving mental health among college students is crucial as they navigate through a phase of significant personal and academic growth. Here are several strategies that can be employed to foster better mental well-being among college students:
Physical Activity
Did you know that exercise is not only great for your physical health but actually improves mental health? According to Helpguide.org those who exercise regularly have seen a profound positive impact on depression, anxiety, and ADHD (Robinson, 2024). Research also indicates that and moderate amount of exercise can make a real difference. (Robinson, 2024). There is a positive correlation that physical activity can improved mental health.
A recent study done by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour reduces the risks of major depression by 26% (Robinson, 2024). Exercise and mental health work hand in hand in hand as they promote feelings of calmness and release endorphins that energize your spirit.
“Physical activity can serve as an effective intervention to preserve or improve physical and mental health.”(Giandonato et al.)
How to incorporate physical activity while dealing with mental health
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Schedule workouts when your energy is highest.
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Focus on activities you enjoy.
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Reward yourself.
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Set SMART Goals.
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Make exercise a social activity.
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UNLV offers group fitness classes at the SWRC. Click this link to discover multiple classes.
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Promoting Awareness and Education
According to the research conducted by Dr. Eisenberg, "The National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R) showed that although the proportion receiving treatment increased between 1990 and 2003, only 41% of those who experienced a mental disorder in the past year used any service" (Eisenberg et.al).
Conversations are important. Implementing workshops/programs that raise awareness about mental health, can reduce the stigma around mental health, provide resources for seeking help, and more. Education can empower students to recognize signs of mental distress in themselves.
“It is well established that counseling and college counseling centers are effective in the treatment of mental health issues“(Sharf et.al)
UNLV provides multiple resources on-campus and off-campus for students, faculty, and families who are experiencing hardships such as mental health, eating disorders, counseling, etc. At UNLV CAPS (Student Counseling and Psychological Services) they provide group therapy, medication services, training, educational seminars, etc.
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References
Eisenberg, D., Golberstein, E., & Gollust, S. E. (2007). Help-seeking And access To mental health care In a university student population. Medical Care, 45(7), 594–601. http://www.jstor.org/stable/40221479
Giandonato, J. A., Tringali, V. M., & Thoms, R. C. (2021). Improving Mental Health through Physical Activity: A Narrative Literature Review. Physical Activity and Health, 5(1), 146+. http://dx.doi.org.ezproxy.library.unlv.edu/10.5334/paah.108
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Robinson, L. (2024, February 5). The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise. HelpGuide.org. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/the-mental-health-benefits-of-exercise.htm
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Sharf, R. S., & Bishop, J. B. (1973). Adjustment differences between counseled and noncounseled students at a university counseling center. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 20(6), 509-512.