Supporting Student Mental Health and Navigating Difficult Conversations

Insights from the NSPA Lunch & Learn: July 10, 2024

December 30, 2024

The National Scholarship Providers Association (NSPA) hosted an enlightening virtual lunch and learn roundtable, bringing together scholarship providers to discuss pressing issues related to student mental health, emergency funding, and having difficult yet necessary conversations. The session served as a platform for providers to share experiences, exchange best practices, and explore strategies for supporting students in an increasingly complex landscape of higher education.

As mental health challenges among students continue to rise, alongside financial pressures and societal shifts, the role of scholarship providers has evolved to include not just funding but comprehensive support for student success.

Mental Health Resources: Providing Support Beyond Scholarships

One of the core topics of discussion was mental health resources for students. Providers highlighted their efforts to address the growing mental health crisis by offering teletherapy services such as BetterHelp. These services allow students to access mental health support regardless of their location, a crucial aspect for those studying in remote areas or under significant time constraints.

However, significant challenges remain. Continuity of care across state lines was identified as a major hurdle, as licensure requirements often restrict teletherapy providers from working with students outside their registered states. Providers also noted the importance of educating students about the resources available to them. Many students are unaware of the support systems in place, leading to underutilization of potentially life-changing services.

Some organizations have begun adopting a case management approach, actively guiding students to the appropriate resources and ensuring follow-through to improve their overall well-being.

Defining Roles and Responsibilities in Student Mental Health

The discussion also delved into the scope of responsibility scholarship providers should assume for student mental health. While many organizations focus on prevention, education, and connecting students to resources, the question of whether providers should intervene directly in crises sparked thoughtful debate.

Staff training emerged as a vital tool in this area. Crisis management training ensures that providers can identify warning signs and respond effectively to critical situations. Attendees shared examples of training modules they’ve implemented to empower their teams, emphasizing the importance of preparation in addressing students' unique needs.

Tackling Difficult Conversations: A Necessary Skill for Providers

Scholarship providers often find themselves in the position of facilitating tough conversations with students. These discussions may center on finances, academic planning, or even broader societal issues that impact campus life, such as protests and activism.

Participants shared strategies for navigating these challenging conversations while maintaining sensitivity and respect for the students’ perspectives. One key takeaway was the importance of integrating financial literacy education into scholarship programs. By equipping students with the tools to manage their finances effectively, providers can reduce the stress associated with economic pressures and help students make informed decisions about their academic and personal lives.

Emergency Funding: Addressing Immediate Needs

The roundtable also highlighted the importance of emergency funding for students facing unexpected crises. Scholarship providers shared insights on the legal and tax implications of distributing emergency funds directly to students. Questions around compliance with IRS regulations and donor stipulations have made it critical for providers to adopt clear policies and best practices.

Many organizations are now exploring streamlined emergency grant application processes, ensuring students in need can access funds quickly and efficiently. This support has proven invaluable in situations where students face housing insecurity, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen financial challenges.

Moving Forward: Proactive Strategies for Student Support

The insights shared during the roundtable underscored the need for a proactive, holistic approach to student support. Scholarship providers are increasingly moving beyond their traditional roles, focusing on creating a supportive ecosystem that addresses the diverse needs of students.

Key strategies identified during the session included:

A Collective Commitment to Student Success

The NSPA roundtable reinforced the commitment of scholarship providers to go beyond financial aid and actively contribute to the holistic development of students. By addressing mental health challenges, facilitating open communication, and providing emergency support, providers are helping students thrive in the face of adversity.

For more tools, resources, and insights on supporting student success, explore the NSPA online resource library.