Dartmouth College has unveiled an institution-wide initiative aimed at enhancing mental health support for graduate, professional, and undergraduate students. The plan, aptly named “Commitment to Care: Dartmouth’s Strategic Plan for Student Mental Health and Well-Being,” is an integral part of President Sian Leah Beilock’s vision for Dartmouth, which she articulated during her recent Inaugural address.
Amid the backdrop of increasing concerns over mental health, Provost David Kotz ’86 conveyed the significance of this initiative, emphasizing the crucial role mental well-being plays in fostering an environment conducive to learning, connection, and overall student success.
President Beilock highlighted the escalating issues of anxiety, stress, and depression among young people, particularly exacerbated by the global pandemic. She underscored the imperative of prioritizing the well-being of the Dartmouth community as a significant service to students, faculty, and staff.
“Commitment to Care” is structured around five core objectives, including placing student well-being at the forefront, fostering an inclusive atmosphere, equipping students with skills to manage both success and failure, proactively addressing student mental health, and investing in evidence-based approaches to adapt to evolving needs.
The plan has already seen the initiation of several key actions, including waiving overnight observation fees at the Dartmouth Health Service infirmary, revising policies for students taking time away for medical reasons, and the establishment of a senior leadership position—the chief health and wellness officer, currently in the recruitment process.
Notable achievements within the plan include a 50% increase in clinical counseling staff over the past three years, and the provision of teletherapy services for all students through mental health provider Uwill. A total of 73 specific actions are outlined in the plan, 35 of which are already in progress.
Key initiatives to be launched this academic year comprise the expansion of mental health education for faculty and staff, systematic reviews of organizational structures related to mental health staffing, and the development of a comprehensive and user-friendly website housing all student mental health and well-being resources and information.
“Commitment to Care” is the result of findings from the Healthy Minds Survey conducted in 2021, undertaken through Dartmouth’s partnership with the Jed Foundation. It incorporates institutional values, lessons from other educational institutions, and input from students, staff, and faculty.
Provost Kotz expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the plan’s development and assured that a town hall meeting to address questions and discuss the plan is scheduled for later this term.
