Bridging the Gap: Student Access to IU Mental Health Resources: Chancellor's Student Mental Health Council Research Project 2025

Abstract

The Chancellor's Student Mental Health Council at Indiana University Indianapolis conducted a study to understand student access to campus mental health resources. This presentation, led by Yamana Uno, Sofia Breuer, and Casandra Carrillo, explores the barriers students face in accessing mental health support, such as time constraints, overwhelming processes, long wait times, and limited service hours. Through focus groups, the research identifies key issues. The findings highlight the need for improved communication strategies, targeted outreach, and enhanced resource accessibility. Recommendations for immediate, short-term, and long-term actions are proposed to address these challenges, including the development of webinars, active involvement of mental health professionals, and the implementation of a Canvas course to centralize resources. The study aims to foster a more supportive and accessible mental health environment for all students at IU Indianapolis.