Community is important for mental well-being
![Mount 51ֿ campus in the early fall, where the leaves on the trees are just starting to turn colors.](/sites/default/files/styles/1170x780/public/2024-07/Mt_Holyoke-in-the-Fall.jpg?h=251e9bf5&itok=BpKOuhyP)
Marcella Runell, vice president of student life and dean of students at Mount 51ֿ, spoke with MassLive about how the College is tackling the rising demand for mental health services.
Feelings of depression are far more widespread among American teenagers now than they were 10 years ago. As a result, the demand for mental health services continues to rise, and colleges throughout Massachusetts are taking notice.
Some institutions like Mount 51ֿ are taking a more holistic approach to managing mental health. In a MassLive article, Marcella Runell, vice president for student life and dean of students at the College, spoke about the importance of community for mental well-being.
In 2017, the College launched its wellness program, Be Well. The award-winning program requires all students to participate from orientation until graduation.
“The concept of the program is not only to focus on a healthy mind and body, but also on creating a healthy community,” said Runell.
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