Universities report continued spike in students seeking mental health services

Universities are reporting a significant uptick in students seeking mental health services after the American Psychological Association called the trend a “crisis” last fall.

Wichita State University’s CARE team, which supports students and faculty in situations that interfere with their ability to “function to their full potential,” reported a 73 percent increase in “care reports” between September 2022 and 2023, according to The Sunflower, the Kansas university’s student newspaper.

“Distress and a need for emotional support” were the two most frequent reasons for individuals seeking help, The Sunflower reported.