You Are Not Alone: Mental Health Support for MDC Students

Many students today carry the weight of a global mental health crisis.  

Anxiety, depression, loneliness, substance use and intrusive thoughts affect us all differently. 

What makes it worse is that many of us deal with it alone, keeping it bottled up and handling it in unhealthy ways.

If this sounds like you, or someone you care about, you’re not alone. And you’ve come to the right place.

Finding help can be hard when you don’t know where to start. Mental health resources and awareness are still not shared as widely as they should be. But we can change that—starting right now.

As a student at Miami Dade College, you are eligible for 10 free hours of mental health counseling with a professional counselor or social worker who is there to support you. 

In-person mental health consulting is available at each campus. The sessions are confidential, personalized and focused on your individual needs.

Mental health struggles can make you feel isolated. Even though no one has walked in your shoes, that doesn’t mean you have to walk this road alone. 

When we keep our struggles hidden, the weight grows heavier, and for some, it becomes overwhelming. 

Suicide is real and frightening but there is hope, and there is help. If you’re having thoughts of hurting yourself or ending your life:

• Call or text 988, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
• If you prefer to text, contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

You won’t be judged and your call won’t trigger police involvement. These services are here to listen, not punish. You deserve support and it truly matters that you’re here.

As a counselor for the Crisis Text Line, I’ve spoken to dozens of students to aid with their crises. 

I’ve noticed that students deal most with academic and social stress, and often use coping methods that range from smoking to alcohol abuse. 

While it may feel like an answer at the time, it only acts as a temporary strategy that can lead to deeper struggles and worse situations. 

If you are experiencing dependence on nicotine, alcohol, marijuana or other substances, please reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for help and resources near you. 

Miami Dade College campuses are smoke-free, but that’s just one part of a larger effort to foster a healthier environment. The College encourages others to support one another in fighting against substance abuse.

It’s understandable to not want to reach out for help with the worry of finances. However, these resources are accessible with little to no financial burden or stress.

If this message resonates with you or someone you know, please share it. Awareness saves lives. 

You are not alone. You are cared for. Help is here.