Date of Award
Spring 2022
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Department/Major
Counseling and Human Services
First Advisor
Dr. Harry Freeman
Second Advisor
Dr. Kari Oyen
Third Advisor
Dr. Kirsten Langellier
Keywords
Mental Health, Counseling, University Students
Subject Categories
Counseling | School Psychology
Abstract
Mental health is critical to the overall wellbeing of individuals. However, college students oftentimes are at an increased susceptibility to encountering mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress, difficulties with concentration, and suicidal ideation. This study aims to assess the mental health perceptions, utilization, awareness, accessibility, and barriers to seeking out mental health aid at the University of South Dakota.; furthermore, this study investigates if and how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced student mental health. Through the distribution of an anonymous survey to University of South Dakota undergraduate students, this thesis project can provide a better understanding of the various attitudes that students have towards their mental health and the mental health services offered to them. In addition to the anonymous student survey, an interview is conducted with a representative of the Student Counseling Center to provide an insider perspective of utilization numbers and mental health prevalence at the University of South Dakota. Finally, this study also presents potential ideas that can be implemented to increase awareness of mental health resources across campus.
Recommended Citation
Pham, Melissa N., "Assessing Student Utilization, Accessibility, and Awareness of Mental Health Practices at the University of South Dakota" (2022). Honors Thesis. 248.
https://red.library.usd.edu/honors-thesis/248