The Unfiltered JMView: Insights from Student Voices

Written by: Sammie Deiorio

November 1st, 2023

In the pursuit of diverse perspectives, I conducted a survey to delve into the minds of my fellow JMU students. A series of questions aimed at unraveling their thoughts and experiences with JMU's mental health resources. Casting a wide net, I surveyed students across various years, majors, and geographical backgrounds, capturing a mosaic of opinions and insights. The goal? To understand the pulse of mental health resources on campus and shed light on what works, what needs improvement, and how we can collectively thrive.

Unveiling the Hidden Gems

One glaring issue emerged during this exploration – the lack of awareness surrounding JMU's mental health resources. It's like having a treasure trove but forgetting to draw a map! According to my survey, 57.1% of students are aware of the resources offered by our university,

while the other 42.9% are only partially in the know. Even more eye-opening was the fact that only 57.1% of respondents had actually utilized these services. A gap in awareness? Definitely. A missed opportunity for well-being? Perhaps.

Advocating for Accessible Counseling

Some students highlighted the need for increased accessibility to counseling services. It's not just about having counselors for crisis situations but making them readily available for regular, frequent sessions. It makes sense – preventative mental health maintenance can be just as crucial as addressing immediate concerns. The effectiveness of existing resources was acknowledged, but a common thread emerged – the lack of awareness. It's not enough to have the services; they need to be marketed effectively to reach every corner of our diverse community.

Diversifying the Palette: Beyond Traditional Therapy

Our survey painted a nuanced picture, reflecting a community that values diversity in mental health resources. Beyond traditional therapy, there's a call for options that cater to individual preferences and needs. One participant expressed the desire for classes specifically dedicated to mental wellness, potentially replacing traditional subjects in our general education requirements. It's not just about learning the ABCs; it's about understanding the intricacies of our mental well-being, providing a holistic education for the mind.

On-Campus Sanctuaries

Moving from awareness to action, it's heartening to know that our fellow Dukes are making the most of the on-campus wellness havens. University Recreation (UREC) facilities, the quad, and the serenity room in the union are popular choices. These spots are highlighted under the Mindful Map tab, go check 'em out to learn more after you finish this read!

Serene spots like the rose library and nature walks in the arboretum and garden provide a therapeutic escape. It's not just about hitting the gym – it's about finding the perfect spot to rejuvenate the mind, whether that's in the midst of nature or a cozy library nook.

Advice from the Trenches: A Guide for New Dukes

I didn't just stop at collecting data; I also invited students to share their top piece of advice for wellness with incoming students. The guidance for mental health at JMU is a goldmine of practical wisdom. Here a few pieces of advice that I found to be the most helpful.

"Prioritize self-care without the guilt – it's not lazy; it's essential. " - JMU sophomore, political science major

"Take the time to relax and reflect, acknowledging that the academic schedule can be demanding. "- JMU junior, SMAD major

"Make the most of JMU's offerings, from extracurricular activities to mental health resources. " - JMU sophomore, Finance major

"Join organizations to build a supportive community, and don't hesitate to reach out to the counseling center and professors during challenging times." - JMU senior, Communications major

Bridging the Gap: Fostering Campus-wide Conversations

Beyond the survey data, the journey uncovered a need for more open conversations surrounding mental health. The numbers may tell a story of awareness gaps, but the solution lies in fostering an environment where mental health is a topic of everyday discussion. It's not just about knowing the resources exist; it's about making mental well-being a regular part of our conversations, both inside and outside the classroom. Initiatives that encourage dialogue and destigmatize seeking help can contribute to a cultural shift, ensuring that every Duke feels informed and supported on their mental health journey.

The call for accessible counseling and diverse mental health resources is not just a plea for change but an invitation for students to actively participate in shaping their university experience. It's a call for collaboration between students, administration, and mental health professionals. By amplifying student voices in decision-making processes, we can ensure that the mental health landscape is not only diverse but also responsive to the evolving needs of our dynamic community. Empowering students to be active contributors to their well-being fosters a sense of ownership and creates a campus environment where thriving becomes the norm, not the exception.

A Call to Thrive, Not Just Survive

As a collective, our voices echo the sentiment that mental well-being is not just an individual concern; it's a community responsibility. JMU has the potential to be a beacon of mental health support, but it requires a collective effort. Let's bridge the awareness gap, advocate for accessible and diverse resources, and continue utilizing the sanctuaries on campus. New Dukes, take note – your mental well-being is a priority, and our community is here to support you on this incredible journey. Together, let's thrive, not just survive!