Mental health on college campuses has become an increasingly important issue as students face rising levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The pressures associated with being a student can have a significant toll on students’ emotional well-being. Many colleges have recognized this growing concern and are expanding mental health resources such as counseling centers, peer support groups, and wellness programs. Prioritizing mental health is essential not only for students’ academic performance but also for their overall quality of life and future success. When colleges foster a supportive environment that normalizes seeking help and promotes balance, students are more likely to thrive both personally and academically. At Worcester State, there are different avenues students can take to seek support.
Seeking Support Your college years can be among the most exciting and gratifying of your life. At times, however, you may feel significant amounts of stress, confusion, and uncertainty. The staff of Worcester State University’s Counseling Center understands the emotional pressure that many of our students experience. Concerns that may lead to counseling include:
Going Beyond the Stigma The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents students from seeking the support they need, as they may fear being judged, misunderstood, or seen as weak. This stigma can create barriers to healing and reinforce harmful ideas about vulnerability. However, reaching out for mental health resources should be viewed as a positive and empowering act of self-awareness and strength. Seeking help shows courage and a commitment to personal growth, just as one would seek medical care for a physical illness. When students normalize conversations about mental health and view support as a tool for resilience, it helps create a healthier, more compassionate campus culture.
Identity in Mental Health Intersections of identity, such as race, gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and disability, play a significant role in shaping a student’s mental health and their access to support while in college. Students from marginalized backgrounds may experience additional stressors like discrimination, cultural isolation, or financial hardship, which can compound the typical pressures of college life. These intersecting factors can make it more difficult for some students to feel seen, understood, or adequately supported by traditional mental health services. Therefore, colleges must ensure that their mental health resources are inclusive, culturally competent, and accessible to all students. Worcester State works to ensure a diverse staff, safe spaces, and programs that acknowledge the unique experiences tied to identity can help promote equity in mental health care and foster a more supportive campus environment.
WSU Counseling Center Students can make appointments in person at Counseling Services located on the third floor of the Student Center, Suite 325.
Appointments may also be made via phone (508-929-8072) or email (counseling_wsu@worcester.edu).
For students needing same-day support, walk-in/triage appointments are available on a daily basis between 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm. During normal business hours (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm), come to the Counseling Center immediately or contact us via telephone (508-929-8072).
If you need immediate medical assistance or are in imminent danger, contact University Police at 508-929-8911.
After hours and during holidays: Contact the ResilientU 24/7 confidential support line: 833-646-1526 If you need medical assistance, call University Police immediately or off-campus dial 911 for local emergency assistance.
Resilient U and Resources to Use on Your Own An extension of the Counseling Center, “ResilientU” is an all-encompassing wellness platform that consists of a 24/7/365 support line. Resilient U is free to all matriculated undergraduate & graduate students.
ResilientU, in partnership with Uwill, offers:
Log in to Resilient U Here
On the Go Resources Worcester State’s Counseling Center has compiled a list of apps that may be helpful to you in managing anxiety, mood and other stressors. These apps can be used in addition to meeting with a counselor, but can also be helpful to those who feel they may not need immediate counseling.
