To many on campus, it might seem as if last year played host to an abnormally high number of campus mental health “cases.” And yet, the number of student issues was most likely no higher than average. Only [last year], people were paying attention.

Now that students have been exposed to varieties of personal backgrounds, health and mental health issues, and personal crises, we as a community of Stanford students can either grow from this experience in creating a healthier campus climate, or ignore last year and cast aside personal crises as those that affect “other people.”

While the Stanford administration races towards developing a healthier campus climate, the upcoming midterm week promises to bring stress and anxiety, among other emotions. Thankfully, there are two steps that Stanford students can take to combat not only the emotional difficulties which characterize such a fast-paced academic setting, but also the stigmas associated with such emotional health issues.

First, do not be afraid to get help for yourself. There are a plethora of services on campus to assist in an unlimited spectrum of student concerns. Stanford offers confidential, non-judgmental, and empowering programs developed just for you.

As star students in high school, many of us are of the mindset that “getting help is for losers.” Nothing could be farther from the truth. Faced with sexual identity questions, an abusive relationship, or simply stress about a midterm, do not feel as if you must shoulder everything on your own. Part of maturing seems to be learning to utilize available resources.

There is certainly yet another reason why Stanford students avoid seeking help in crisis. The elephant in the room is a stigma associated with mental health issues. The Stanford community has an unhealthy obsession with perfection, and any signs of cracks in the foundation are shunned. In fact, mental health should really be viewed as an entirely non-stigmatized concept, one of emotional health. Today’s psychology literature paints a picture of emotional health as a muscle, which, like any other, requires maintenance and exercise, not something to be shy about.

The best way to improve our Stanford community is through the power of friendship. Sure, it can be difficult to intervene in the lives of friends who may be having some serious problems. It’s tedious, sometimes unrewarding, and yet almost always the right thing to do. If your neighbor sprained her ankle, wouldn’t you run to her side?

There is a certain validation provided when a friend takes the time to help out. Helping a friend with an eating disorder find resources on campus is a good example. Most importantly, through your care, you provide your friend with a non-judgmental message of support. Messages like these make the difference in cutting down on mental health stigmas.

Here is a good personal example where a friend’s care made all the difference. In freshman year, I was dejected about another relationship gone awry. I begged my roommate to accompany me to a Vaden workshop on “Why I Want What I Can’t Have.” He smiled at me, and said, “of course.” Going to that workshop with my supportive roommate was one of the most beneficial experiences at Stanford.

In review: Beat the Stanford mental health stigma and do not be afraid to seek help for yourself, and offer a generous hand to friends.

Patrick Cordova ‘09 is a Bridge Peer Counselor, and a member of the Campus Climate Change Task Force.