ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Five Central Illinois community colleges are among 32 across the state receiving mental health funding.

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) is providing $3,608,510 to community colleges statewide to support student mental health in 2025. These Mental Health Early Action on Campus (MHEAC) grants will help colleges expand mental health support programs and implement new strategies.

Additionally, these funds will introduce new services, improve existing practices and target service gaps to assist in meeting the mental health needs of thousands of students on these campuses across Illinois.

“We know many college students nationwide face mental health challenges. A recent U.S. News survey revealed nearly 70% of college students report struggling with their mental health,” said ICCB executive director Brian Durham. “This investment will help community colleges better meet the needs of students outside the classroom, contributing to their success in the classroom.”

The Central Illinois community colleges that applied for and are receiving MHEAC funding this fiscal year include:

The 2023 Healthy Minds Study surveyed 800 campuses across the United States and found that 41% of students screened as positive for clinically significant symptoms of depression. Additionally, the survey found that 1 in 3 students screened as positive for anxiety.

Information from the Lumina Foundation State of higher Education 2024 Report indicates that 64% of students currently enrolled who recently considered dropping out of their programs said emotional stress/mental health concerns are significant reasons why.

Each college receiving grants will use them in at least one of four ways:

• Develop and expand peer support programs
• Expand the number of students served through local partnerships
• Develop and expand mental health services targeting service gaps, emphasizing underserved students
• Develop Medicaid and other reimbursement procedures for mental health services