Campus Mental Health Gains Momentum, But Equity and Sustainability Remain Concerns

NEW YORK, NY – November 18, 2025 – College campuses across the nation are demonstrating a growing commitment to student mental health, according to a new report from The Princeton Review and the Ruderman Family Foundation. The 2nd annual Campus Mental Health Survey reveals double-digit gains in the availability of crucial support services, from accredited counseling centers to integrated residential life programs. However, experts caution that these improvements must be viewed through a lens of equity and financial sustainability.

A Rising Tide of Support

The survey, which gathered data from 540 institutions and over 31,000 students, paints a picture of increasingly proactive campuses. A substantial 61% of colleges now offer formal support programs for students returning from mental health leave, an 18% increase from the previous year. Similarly, 76% of schools boast accredited or standards-aligned counseling centers, and 64% operate fully staffed centers year-round. Integration of mental health and wellness into residential life is also widespread, with 93% of colleges now offering such programs.

“We’re seeing a clear shift in priorities,” said one administrator at a large public university. “There's a greater recognition that mental health is health, and that supporting student wellbeing is fundamental to their academic success and overall development.” This increased focus is driven, in part, by growing awareness of the prevalence of mental health challenges among college students, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The number of schools recognized for their commitment to mental health has also grown. The 2026 Mental Health Services Honor Roll includes 30 colleges, up from 16 the previous year. While these numbers are encouraging, the progress isn’t uniform.

Disparities and Access Gaps Remain

Despite the overall gains, significant disparities in access to care persist. While many institutions are expanding services, questions remain about whether these resources are reaching all students, particularly those from marginalized communities. One source indicated that students of color, first-generation students, and those from low-income backgrounds often face unique barriers to accessing mental health support.

“Increased funding and staffing are important steps, but they’re not enough,” explained one college counselor. “We need to address the systemic issues that create these disparities. That means culturally competent care, outreach to underrepresented groups, and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.”

Furthermore, while the survey indicates a growing number of schools with accredited counseling centers, a significant minority – 24% – still fall short of this standard. This raises concerns about the quality of care available at those institutions. The increase in students reporting they know where to access resources (up to 79%) and believe services are readily available (up to 76%) is positive, but still leaves a considerable portion of students feeling unsupported.

The Sustainability Question

Beyond equity concerns, the long-term sustainability of these gains remains a critical challenge. Expanding mental health services requires ongoing financial investment, and many colleges are grappling with tight budgets and competing priorities. One college finance officer expressed concern about the potential for “funding fatigue” if economic conditions worsen.

“We’ve made significant investments in mental health over the past few years, but it’s not sustainable if we don’t have a stable source of funding,” the officer stated. “We need to explore innovative funding models, such as public-private partnerships and philanthropic support.”

Experts suggest that relying solely on tuition revenue to fund mental health services is not a viable long-term solution. Diversifying funding sources and prioritizing preventative measures—such as mental health literacy programs and early intervention initiatives—are crucial for creating a sustainable system of care.

There’s also the issue of staffing. Increased demand for mental health services is putting a strain on already overwhelmed counseling centers. Colleges are struggling to recruit and retain qualified professionals, particularly in areas with high costs of living. Finding creative solutions, like leveraging telehealth and peer support programs, can help address these challenges, but they require careful planning and implementation.

The expansion of comprehensive wellness programs (now at 99% of colleges) is a positive trend, signaling an increasing emphasis on preventative care. However, the effectiveness of these programs depends on adequate staffing, training, and ongoing evaluation. A source noted that simply offering programs isn’t enough; colleges must ensure they are meeting the needs of their students and delivering measurable results.

As colleges continue to prioritize student mental health, it’s essential to address these complex challenges proactively and collaboratively. By focusing on equity, sustainability, and innovation, institutions can create a supportive environment where all students have the opportunity to thrive.