Mercer Times

Princeton University has taken significant steps to enhance mental health and well-being support for its students. The recent opening of the Frist Health Center is a part of these efforts, providing a comprehensive approach to student health. The center aims not only to treat illness but also to promote healthy behaviors through outreach and prevention programs.

Vice President for Campus Life W. Rochelle Calhoun emphasized the university's holistic approach: “We know that well-being and a sense of belonging go hand in hand,” she said. This philosophy aligns with the Board of Trustees' 2023 decision to make mental and physical well-being a core part of Princeton's mission.

The Frist Health Center offers various medical services, including counseling and psychological services, as well as spaces for wellness activities. John Kolligian, Executive Director of University Health Services, described it as “a comforting destination for students, ill and well.”

Princeton has also expanded recreational facilities with the Class of 1986 Fitness and Wellness Center and the Wilkinson Fitness Center at Meadows Campus. These facilities provide ample space for fitness activities available to students, faculty, and staff.

To further support mental health on campus, Princeton is collaborating with the JED Foundation to assess resources and implement recommendations from their study by summer's end. Additionally, the university participates in the New Jersey Higher Education Mental Health Summit to share best practices across institutions.

Calvin Chin from Counseling and Psychological Services hopes these initiatives will encourage more students to seek care: “If a student comes here for the first time... maybe that student will feel more comfortable seeking other services or making an appointment with a provider.”

Princeton has also improved its Student Health Plan by reducing copays for mental health services, making them more accessible. Allen Nieva from the Undergraduate Student Government highlighted ongoing efforts: “Mental health is a shared responsibility that spans generations.”

Annual events like Community Care Day and Wintersession are designed to foster connections among students while promoting resilience. Judy Jarvis from the Office of Campus Engagement noted that these events aim to create environments where students can connect outside academic settings.

The TigerWell Initiative supports various projects integrating well-being into campus life, such as outreach counselors who provide informal support in residential colleges. Anne Laurita explained that TigerWell engages partners across campus in collaborative health promotion efforts.

Maria Garlock led the development of a faculty toolkit aimed at enhancing learning environments through practices supporting student well-being. She stated her commitment to creating classrooms that nurture engagement and confidence.