Recently circulating around Facebook is a link to sign a Change.org petition to protest Saint Anselm’s decision to reduce counseling sessions (offered weekly or more often depending on the student) to only be biweekly sessions.

A petition called “Fight for Counseling Services” was created on Change.org with the motto of “#stopthestigma.” It has encouraged students to stand up for their peers and make sure that they receive the services that they need and has obtained 818 signatures.

It is unfair for the school to withdraw the availability of services that were previously provided, and students are voicing their protests. Many have shared their personal experiences with school counseling and praised the services for being very helpful in maintaining their overall sense of well-being.

This is very helpful, as those who receive counseling at Saint Anselm or are thinking of starting sessions will be encouraged that many of their peers have done the same. Needing mental support is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.

As many signers of the petition stated, college is a very stressful environment. Students are in a constant balancing act with academics, extracurricular activities, work, and social time. It is difficult to also maintain a healthy state with adequate amounts of sleep and nutrition.

Unfortunately, mental health services are one of those things most frequently on the chopping block when funding has weaned. This is especially true in prisons, where it is about impossible to rehabilitate offenders without some form of mental support.

Especially as a psychology major, I recognize the importance of counseling services and the possible detriments if they are taken away.

If frequent services are no longer available at school, students may be unable to receive necessary counseling due to a lack of transportation or funds (if the services are not covered by insurance).

Mental health is the most important basis for functioning. We cannot be healthy, happy, and successful students without an adequate level of mental health.