In spite of some recent studies indicating a decrease in the prevalence of major depression, mental health remains a significant concern among community college students. Many report that anxiety and stress harm both their well-being and academic success, with some even withdrawing from classes. The constant stress from trying to balance college, work, and family responsibilities is "also associated with a host of adverse conditions, including a higher prevalence of eating disorders, suicidality, and substance abuse compared to the adult, noncollege-student population."(1) Stigma, limited awareness of services, and barriers like work and caregiving make accessing support especially difficult for students in two-year colleges.

For this episode, please join two new student co-hosts -- Ashleylucie Ntumba Lumbala and Sion Hardy -- faculty host Dr. Babette Faehmel, and their guests, for an intense conversation about stress, doubt, and fear of the future; but also for an inspiring talk about self-care, wellness, and --- surprisingly --- the healing power of the martial arts.

Contributing to this episode are: Current students Brittany Bowie and Khalim Hannah; former student and current CEO of JMurrayAthletics, John Murray; Sean Mullen, Counselor in SUNY Schenectady's Wellness and Support Services office; and Maria Farina, Adjunct Instructor of Psychology and Civic Engagement at SUNY Schenectady.

For more information about mental health supports, please visit SUNY Schenectady's Wellness and Support Services, which includes the Disability Resource Office, the Resource Hub, supportive counseling, and the Food Pantry. If you want to reach out to Sean Mullen, send an email to sean.mullen@sunysccc.edu or give him a call at 518-381-1336.

(1) Bonilla, Sade, and Veronica Minaya. (2024). Challenges and opportunity: An examination of barriers to postsecondary academic success. (EdWorkingPaper: 24-925). Retrieved from Annenberg Institute at Brown University: https://doi.org/10.26300/0cw6-fe07

The views voiced on this episode reflect the lived experiences and uncensored opinions of the guests; they do not necessarily capture the full diversity of attitudes within a larger community, nor do they express an official view of SUNY Schenectady.