Carleton is actively working to make mental health and well-being possible for all students. The first step is recognizing the scope of the issue. In our 2017 Healthy Minds Study, we learned the following about Carleton students:

  • The level of stigma associated with mental health challenges is lower than you might assume.
    • Only 4% of students agree with the statement, “I would think less of someone who has received mental health treatment.”
  • Still, many students do not seek the help they need or might benefit from.
    • Less than 2/3 of students who screened positive for depression or anxiety received treatment in the past year.
    • 32% of students agree with the statement, “Most people would think less of someone who has received mental health treatment.”
  • Specific areas of concern for Carleton students include:
    • 25% of students screened positive for depression.
    • 22% of students screened positive for anxiety disorders.
    • 24% of students screened positive for disordered eating.
    • 14% of students experienced suicidal thoughts.
    • 29% of students engaged in non-suicidal self-injury.
  • We also need to think proactively about mental well-being.
    • Only 40% of students met the criteria for flourishing.