Supporting Mental, Emotional, and Social Health (MESH) in Youth Programs on College and University Campuses

As more colleges and universities offer youth programs ranging from summer camps to academic enrichment activities, awareness of the behavioral health needs of young participants is crucial. Youth programs on college campuses provide fantastic opportunities for learning, social development, and adventure. Yet, being away from home, navigating new environments, and adjusting to new routines can also bring on challenges.

Mental and behavioral health concerns among youth are on the rise, and it’s essential for staff in university-run youth programs to be familiar with the types of challenges participants may face. Here are some of the most common issues that can impact campers and program participants:

1. Anxiety
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues affecting youth today. For young people, navigating new social situations, performance expectations, and the pressures of being away from home can all trigger anxious feelings. While mild anxiety is a natural response to change, staff should be prepared to recognize when it becomes overwhelming and requires additional support.

2. Depression
While it’s less common than anxiety in youth, depression is another concern that may arise in youth program settings. Depression in children and teens often presents differently than it does in adults, sometimes showing up as irritability, fatigue, or withdrawal rather than sadness. Staff should be mindful of changes in behavior that may indicate a need for further assessment.

3. Behavioral Issues and Self-Regulation
Young people, especially those adjusting to a new environment, can sometimes struggle with self-regulation. This includes managing emotions, adapting to group settings, and following routines. Behavioral issues like impulsivity or defiance can be a form of communication for youth who may be feeling stressed, uncomfortable, or unable to express their needs effectively.

4. Bullying and Peer Conflicts
While not strictly a mental health issue, bullying and social conflicts can have severe emotional and behavioral consequences. Youth program staff should be prepared to identify signs of bullying, respond sensitively, and offer mediation when conflicts arise. Establishing a supportive, inclusive environment can help prevent bullying and encourage positive interactions.

5. Self-Harm and Other Risk Behaviors
In more serious cases, young people may engage in self-harm or display other behaviors that signal distress, such as threats of harm to themselves or others. It is critical for staff to recognize the signs and know how to respond appropriately and safely. Having protocols in place for these scenarios can help ensure the well-being of all participants.

With a comprehensive understanding of these mental and behavioral health challenges, universities can take proactive steps to foster supportive environments in their youth programs. Here are several strategies to consider:

Train Staff in Mental Health Awareness and Intervention
Providing youth program staff with training on mental health basics, intervention techniques, and crisis response can be invaluable. Knowledge about how to recognize, approach, and respond to potential issues ensures that staff members feel prepared and confident in supporting participants.

Foster Open Communication and Active Listening
Youth need to feel heard and understood. By actively listening and fostering open lines of communication, staff can create a welcoming and safe space for participants to express their feelings. Additionally, programs can benefit from establishing a clear, confidential pathway for participants to share their needs and concerns.

Promote Social and Emotional Learning
Introducing structured activities focused on social and emotional skills, such as teamwork, self-regulation, and conflict resolution, can help participants develop resilience and self-awareness. Programs can also encourage journaling, group discussions, or relaxation exercises to support mental well-being.

Ensure Privacy and Respect for Confidentiality
Mental and behavioral health issues are deeply personal, and maintaining privacy is essential. Staff should practice discretion in discussing participants’ experiences and ensure that sensitive information is shared only with those who need to know for the safety and care of the individual.

Implement Clear Protocols for Crisis Situations
Having a plan in place for handling mental health crises ensures that staff members know exactly what to do if a participant is in distress. This can include knowing when to reach out for mental health professionals, communicating with families, or following university protocols for emergencies.

For college and university youth programs looking to elevate their mental health support, the new Behavioral Health module from CampDoc is an innovative addition to its camp management software. CampDoc is now the only camp management and compliance software that provides specialized tools for behavioral health documentation, risk assessments, and privacy-focused data handling.

Key Features of the CampDoc Behavioral Health Module

• Expanded Documentation: Track mood, cognitive functioning, and behavioral indicators with ease, providing a complete picture of each participant’s mental and emotional well-being.
• Comprehensive Risk Assessments: The module includes tools for critical risk assessments, including assessments for suicidal, homicidal, self-injurious, abuse/neglect, and bullying risks.
• Enhanced Privacy and Role-Based Permissions: With role-based access, only authorized personnel can view sensitive information, ensuring a high level of privacy and security.

CampDoc is designed to help youth programs run by colleges and universities better understand and respond to the unique needs of their participants, ultimately fostering a more inclusive, supportive environment where every young person can thrive.

For more information on the CampDoc Behavioral Health module and how it can enhance mental and behavioral health support in your university’s youth programs, please visit www.campdoc.com/higher-ed or contact us directly. Together, we can ensure the health, safety, and well-being of every participant, helping them make the most of their time on campus.