MTSU Counseling Services Hosts Annual Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Fair

The fair served to raise awareness about mental health issues and connect students with various resources. Attendees engaged with therapy dogs, participated in activities, enjoyed free food, and had the chance to register for giveaways. Channing Phillips, a licensed mental health counselor at MTSU, emphasized the importance of informing students about the available resources on and off campus.

Statistics from the University of Michigan School of Public Health indicate that in 2022, 44% of college students experienced symptoms of moderate to severe depression, and 37% showed symptoms of anxiety. The data also reported that 15% had suicidal thoughts, while 58% felt high levels of loneliness. By 2025, these figures had decreased, with depression symptoms dropping to 37%, anxiety to 32%, and suicidal thoughts to 11%.

September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, underscoring the fair's relevance. Student Skylee Baker remarked on the event’s significance, noting the importance of accessing mental health resources, especially during challenging times in college. Another student, Hannah Hager, pointed out that while young adults often face feelings of isolation, events like this help foster connections.

MTSU Counseling Services operates out of the Keathley University Center, room 326-S, from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For immediate assistance, students can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting or visiting 988lifeline.org.