Kettering College Offers Services Focusing on Student’s Mental Health

Story by Lauren Brooks

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) on Campus recently hosted an animal stress relief day for students at Kettering College.

According to 2019 reports by the American Institute of Stress, anxiety and depression are the most common health problems that occur among college students in America. These reports say that animals such as dogs, cats, ducklings, and horses have been successfully used by health care professionals as a method of treatment for trauma, addictions, pre- and post-deployment post-traumatic stress disorder among military personnel, and mentally or physically disabled individuals of all ages. Colleges and universities across the United States are offering students opportunities for animal stress relief events, as well as creating provisions for students who have canine support partners. These support partners are animals that bring a sense of calmness and are trained under the titles of service, emotional support, or therapy animals.

“NAMI on Campus recognizes the stigma placed on mental illness,” says Mary Matese, nursing professor and the faculty advisor for NAMI on Campus at Kettering College. “We’re dedicated to providing education, resources, and mental, emotional, and spiritual support to our students.”

NAMI on Campus surveyed current students, asking for suggestions of events and services they would like NAMI to offer. An animal stress relief day was a popular suggestion. NAMI decided to work with the local Humane Society’s animal stress relief program, which is already in place for colleges across Southwest Ohio. The event was not only a success for the students, but also for two kittens who were adopted during the event.