Editor’s Note: ChatGPT was employed after the reporting process to provide clarity in the organization.
As the spring semester presses on, maintaining mental well-being can become increasingly challenging for students. Whether it’s the pressure of academic deadlines, adjusting to college life or navigating personal relationships, mental health struggles are common in college adults.
According to a research study conducted by students at Harvard University, about 1 in every 5 college students experience suicidal thoughts in any given year. In fact, in a study by the Journal of Affective Disorders found that during the 2020–2021 academic year, “more than 60% of college students met the criteria for at least one mental health problem.”
Stevenson University tries to address these concerns through its Wellness Center, offering free counseling services and other mental health resources to support students.
Located in the Caves Building on campus, the Wellness Center plays an essential role in helping students manage their mental health. According to the official Stevenson University Wellness Center website, the center aims to provide “limited primary healthcare services and mental health resources” to help students reach their “optimal health” so they can fully achieve their academic and personal potential.
A Safe, Accessible Resource
The Wellness Center is available to all members of the Stevenson community. While it offers primary care services, the focus is on mental health. Students facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, burnout or life adjustments can find support here. If the center’s services do not meet a student’s specific needs, referrals to outside resources, including professional therapy or psychiatric care, are available.
In an effort to make these services more accessible, the center provides flexibility in counseling sessions. Nichole Eagan Kline, a licensed professional counselor at the Wellness Center, said students can schedule appointments on a weekly, bi-weekly, or as-needed basis. This flexibility is a key advantage, especially for students balancing academic commitments.
Inside the Wellness Center
The atmosphere at the Wellness Center reflects its inclusive approach to supporting students. Upon entering the space, students are greeted by a variety of items meant to support both mental and physical well-being. Among the eclectic offerings, a basket filled with condoms of various sizes and brands stands out, symbolizing the center’s commitment to health education. Fidget toys are also available, providing a tactile outlet for stress relief while students wait for their appointments.
Eagan Kline, who has been with the Wellness Center since October 2024, explained the range of services available.
“We do individual counseling for students who might have mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression or adjustment issues like moving away from home for the first time,” Kline said. “We also see a lot of students struggling with stress, especially around midterms or finals.”
Support Beyond Counseling
The Wellness Center is not just about counseling–it offers a holistic approach to student wellness. In addition to mental health services, the center works in collaboration with a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is available for medication management and a nutritionist who provides guidance on healthy eating. The center also employs nurses who assist with general healthcare needs.
While the Wellness Center focuses primarily on short-term care for students, its services extend beyond the academic year. During the summer, telehealth sessions are available for students who remain in Maryland. This flexibility helps ensure that students receive the support they need, even when they are not on campus.
Navigating Mental Health Concerns
Eagan Kline emphasized the importance of reaching out to the Wellness Center even if students are unsure about their mental health needs.
“We have a lot of students who come in and say, ‘I’ve never been to counseling before. I don’t know what to expect,’” she said.
The Wellness Center provides an open space for students to ask questions, explore their feelings, and decide whether counseling or medication is right for them.
The center is also a hub of information for students seeking mental health resources beyond Stevenson. Eagan Kline highlighted Psychology Today as a useful tool for finding external therapists, and she noted that the Wellness Center’s social media accounts often share helpful resources, such as tips for sleep hygiene or managing stress.
A Bridge to Broader Mental Health Support
While the Wellness Center offers valuable support, it is also a bridge to broader mental health care. For students who may need long-term therapy or more frequent sessions, the center provides referrals to outside providers.
“If a student needs something more than what we can offer, like therapy more than once a week, we help them find external providers who can meet their needs,” Eagan Kline said.
The center also works to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health care by encouraging students to reach out for help when they need it most.
“We’re here, and we want to help. Even if it’s outside of our scope, we’ll help you find the support you need,” Eagan Kline said.
Final Thoughts
The Wellness Center at Stevenson University offers a vital service to students struggling with mental health issues. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or just need someone to talk to, the center is there to provide free, confidential support. With flexible counseling options, access to external resources and a holistic approach to health, the Wellness Center stands as a beacon of care on campus.
As Eagan Kline noted, “We just want students to know that we’re here, and if they have any questions or concerns, they should never hesitate to reach out.”
For more information, students can visit the Wellness Center in the Caves Building, Email the Wellness Center, or follow them on Social Media to stay updated on available resources.
