NEW YORK (NCC News) — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that there will be more access to mental health care to over 200,000 SUNY students across 28 campuses. SUNY campuses are investing around $10 million per year to increase the availability and grow the Statewide Tele-Psychiatry Network (STPN).
The funding came from the governor’s and New York Legislature’s $163 million increase in operating aid to SUNY campuses. Since 2018, STPN has grown from four campuses to 56. Since 2017, over 2000 students have had appointments. Hochul said the goal is to ensure every New Yorker has access to high-quality mental health services.
“College can be a stressful and overwhelming time, and this funding will expand mental health services on college campuses so students can focus on just being students,” Hochul said.
The latest Healthy Minds Survey said that approximately 40% of college students suffer from some form of depression, and about 33% deal with anxiety.
At least 25 of the campuses will be hiring or extending contracts of mental health staff. 14 campuses are looking to leverage telehealth to increase capacity to meet student needs. Other items being invested in are: peer support, promoting existing mental health resources, and professional development opportunities.
“While we are committed to helping students navigate immediate challenges,” said SUNY ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “Our ultimate goal is to provide them with strategies and skills that cultivate resilience so they can thrive during their college experience and beyond.”