Perception of Mental Health on Christian College Campuses: A Case Study

Abstract

The perception of mental health directly impacts an individual’s acceptance and utilization of counseling services. Mental health challenges are increasingly common among college students. The purpose of this case study is to examine the perception of mental health and the receptiveness to receiving mental health services among Christian college students. This study surveyed both professors and students from a Christian college in Central Pennsylvania. The two key themes that emerged from this study were a perceived stigma attached to mental health challenges and receiving mental health services and a lack of support from the Christian community. The survey results inform the recommendations including expanding education surrounding mental health and mental health services, accessibility of mental health services, and destigmatizing mental health