Photo Credits: Nikki Victory
Mental health challenges continue to affect college students across the United States, and students at Arkansas Tech University say the pressures of academics and daily life can sometimes feel overwhelming.
National surveys show many college students experience stress, anxiety, or depression during school, underscoring the importance of mental health resources on campuses.
Experts say the transition to college life often brings new responsibilities and expectations that can impact students’ emotional well-being.
At Arkansas Tech University, students have access to counseling and wellness resources through the university’s Health and Wellness Center, located in the Doc Bryan Student Services Center. The center offers counseling services, consultations, and wellness programs to support students dealing with stress, anxiety, or other concerns, helping them feel cared for.
Some students say their mental health experiences can fluctuate throughout the semester.
Pablo Garcia, a senior mechanical engineering major at Arkansas Tech, said his mental health has felt like an “up-and-down effect” during his four years at the university.
“Some days I would feel great, and some days I would feel horrible,” Garcia said. “But it’s always great knowing that if I ever needed anything, Tech provides it.”
Jonathan Hartman, a junior electrical engineering major who transferred to Arkansas Tech this semester from a community college, said he appreciates the mental health resources available at the university.
“I just transferred here this semester from a community college, which had options for mental health services, but not to the extent of ATU,” Hartman said. “I think it’s a great thing always to have that option for people to talk in a private space and get help if needed.”
Students say academic deadlines, exams, and balancing school with other responsibilities can create stress during the semester. Emphasizing that access to campus resources can make a difference when challenges arise encourages students to utilize these services.
Mental health professionals advise students to seek help when feeling overwhelmed and to take advantage of campus services, as awareness of mental health issues continues to grow nationwide.
University officials encourage students experiencing stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns to reach out to campus support services or speak with a trusted advisor, professor, or counselor, emphasizing that seeking help is a shared step toward a healthier campus community.
