Prioritizing First-Gen Mental Health: Advocacy and Support in Higher Education

Students’ mental health is a concern at many institutions, and the mental well-being of first-generation college students is a particularly crucial topic for those committed to student success. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and offers numerous opportunities to #AdvocateFirstgen.

While big Issues in higher education dominate the news - from legislation affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and staff, challenges with the rollout of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and widespread student activism about the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians - food insecurity or juggling coursework with other responsibilities may have a greater effect on many first-generation students’ well-being. National data demonstrated that first-generation college students experienced stressors such as food insecurity, lack of access to affordable childcare, and the need for emergency financial assistance at greater rates than continuing-generation students.

College student mental health concerns are being addressed in different ways by several states. The Cameron Carden Act of 2024, recently passed in Maryland, requires each public institution of higher education to adopt a policy authorizing a student to withdraw under extenuating circumstances and refund the tuition and fees paid by the student for a specific semester under circumstances that include injury, hospitalization, and mental health and wellness. This act requires the alignment of existing policies enabling students who withdraw due to physical injuries or ailments. The bill was introduced in previous sessions and passed in the House but not the Senate, with the lack of passage attributed to a lack of understanding of mental health issues. The 2024 bill was successful and will be effective July 1, 2024.

In Ohio, $20 million in funding was dedicated by the governor and state General Assembly for colleges and universities to provide additional mental health support for college students. This funding is enabling institutions to expand mental health services to their students. For example, an award of almost $2.5 million from this fund is enabling Ohio State University to add specialized teletherapy, academic accommodation support, and mental health and well-being resources and programs for students.

National nonprofit organizations also offer support for first-generation college students. The Jed Foundation, a national nonprofit organization focused on mental health issues for teens and young adults, offers resources specific to first-generation college students. This information advises first-generation on building support networks that include institution and community-based resources.

At the direct-student service level, advocacy activities related to first-generation student mental health can include ensuring that first-generation students are aware of available campus-based or community resources by including information in syllabi or disseminating information in programs or offices serving this student population. When prioritizing student services, highlighting the value of mental health resources for first-generation students, any free or low-cost options, and tracking the use of services by this student population can provide critical information to justify maintaining or additionally investing in such services.

As we highlight the importance of resources to address mental health needs during May, elevating the mental health resource needs of first-generation students offers the ability to #AdvocateFirstgen for critical funding and services at the national, state, and institutional levels.