On campus, college students are faced with several challenges. Some that could get overlooked are the struggles of coping with mental health and substance abuse issues.
College is an exciting time for many young adults. It’s a time for discovery, learning, and personal growth. It’s also a time of transition from a regimented schedule and numerous known resources to adapting and navigating the unknown.
They’re confronted with challenging situations, like managing coursework, to acclimating with campus life, and are unaware of how to cope. For some, this can lead to mental health issues, like anxiety disorders, eating disorders, sleeping issues or depression. It can also lead to substance abuse, including prescription or illicit drugs, as well as binge drinking.
The Numbers Behind College Student Mental Health
Coping with mental health or substance use issues can be challenging for college students. According to a recent American College Health Association (ACHA) survey, three out of five college students reported experiencing overwhelming anxiety, while two out of five were too depressed to function.1 In fact, less than 15 percent of these students seek help and continue to struggle alone.2 There are a variety of reasons, whether it be limited or unknown resources to being embarrassed about reaching out for help. Unfortunately, when untreated, these issues can have a profound impact on their academic performance and overall wellbeing.
Improving Accessibility to College Student Health Services
Furthering our commitment to empower students to lead healthier lives, we’re excited to introduce another beneficial behavioral health service to help college students get the care they need, whether they’re home or away.
Wellfleet Student members on the Cigna network can access personal and confidential video-based mental health and substance use care. This telehealth service can be accessed on the students’ smartphone, tablet or computer.
Three Steps to Schedule a Telehealth Appointment
Students on participating Wellfleet Student plans can schedule and conduct their appointment in a place they feel most comfortable. Scheduling can be done in three simple steps:
- Enter your school name in the search box on WellfleetStudent.com. Click on “Find health professionals”, then click on “Locate a provider in my network”.
- Enter your zip code and under “Doctor by Type” select “Virtual Counselor” then “Continue as Guest”.
- Call to make your appointment with your selected provider.
Following the call, the provider will give the student information on how to set up the video-based session for their appointment.
Benefits of Student Telehealth Service
“Substance abuse and mental health issues can be overwhelming for college students,” says Drew DiGiorgio, President and CEO of Wellfleet Insurance. “Our research shows how critical behavioral health care services are for the college student population. That’s why we’re committed to getting students the help they need, as conveniently as possible.”
For busy college students, telehealth services offer several benefits:
- Convenience – Receive quality care without leaving your home or campus
- Choice – Select from a variety of quality in-network providers3
- Privacy – Your connection is secure and as private as an in-office visit
- Savings – May reduce costs associated with travel for an office visit
- Cost – Your out-of-pocket cost is the same as a behavioral health outpatient office visit4
Also, for those that may not be comfortable with video chat or if the matter is urgent, Wellfleet Student offers its CareConnect service. This service provides student members at participating schools immediate access to licensed professionals to help manage their mental health and substance abuse issues. Student members can connect with a counselor immediately through their Wellfleet Student app or by calling 1-888-857-5462.
1 ACHA-NCHA II, American College Health Association, 2019.
2 The Rise of Mental Health on College Campuses: Protecting the Emotional Health of Our Nation’s College Students, American Council on Education, 2018.
3 Telehealth services including video chat may not be available in all areas or with all plan types. See your plan materials for costs and complete details of coverage including other telehealth benefits that may be available to you.
4 Mental health and/or substance use disorder services covered under your health plan may be subject to your plan’s deductible, coinsurance and/or copayment requirements. Review your plan documents for costs and complete details of coverage.
