Mental Health Screening and Referral Pathways among First Year College Students: A Case Analysis in the Philippine Context

Abstract

Background: Mental health of college student has been concern for public health due to increased risk of psychological distress. The transition from Senior High School to college brought changes such as social expectation in academic achievement which add mental health stressors This include mental health problem such as stress, anxiety, depression which the university student often encounter. In the Philippines, issues such as stress due to demand of academic institution become concern among college student which impact on their mental health. Data in the year 2021 supported from the National Center for Mental Health that 21,468 calls were received in the hotline which a total of 7600 related to suicide and 4800 out on it from below 17 years old. Purpose: The aim of the study is to explore and evaluate Mental Health Screening Process and Referral Pathways Among First year College students in selected University in Metro Manila. This will help to assess the process of screening, strategies, and programs for mental health awareness with in the campus. Methods: A descriptive case analysis was conducted at selected University in Metro Manila. Data were collected through document review and interviews. A total of 293 from a population of 1031 first year students who participated on the survey on Mental Health well-being. For the Institution Personnel a total of twenty five faculty who participated on interview in the assessment of identification on the students who are possible at risk in mental issues and Ten participants who participated in the interview from School Nurse, Guidance Counsellor and Staff from Students Affairs Office. The setting were conducted in selected University in Metro Manila. Results: The study presented four major themes in the assessment of mental health screening and referral pathways among college students. The major themes as follows: (1) Early Detection and Appropriate Screening Tool (2) Stress Management and Follow up Program (3) Accessibility and Awareness of the Services (4) Healthy Campus Support Student Well Being. Conclusion: The case analysis ​highlights the importance of​ addressing the mental health issues that Colleges Students encounter. The study emphasizes the importance of Early Detection methods in responding to the mental health issues among College Students. A collaborative approach to promote Mental Health Education leverage on healthy mental well-being and academic success among College Students.