As an organization that recognizes the importance of the mental health and well-being of our college students, the American College Health Association (ACHA) remains committed to advancing mental health awareness and promoting student success for all.
Our advocacy includes championing policies that expand access to mental health services on campuses, supporting initiatives that reduce stigma, and collaborating with federal partners to ensure college health professionals are equipped with the tools, training, and resources they need to support students—particularly emerging adults navigating critical developmental years.
In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, ACHA is proud to highlight some of our ongoing accomplishments in the mental health space, all in service of fostering thriving campus environments where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Earlier in the year, ACHA hosted a Hill Day to request that the U.S. Congress draft legislation that would provide state licensure exemptions for college mental health professionals so that they can continue to provide care to students across state lines. While introductory efforts remain ongoing, several members of Congress have expressed interest in leading the charge on this issue. If enacted, the legislation would not require campuses to change existing policies or practices; instead, it would provide colleges and practitioners with the option to continue treating students across state lines.
In addition to policy efforts, ACHA crafted the Framework for a Comprehensive College Health Program, which outlines how college health program can addresses the unique needs of college students and highlights how college students’ access to mental health services is a critical component of a comprehensive health program. ACHA emphasizes the importance of integrating mental health into the broader context of campus health services, promoting a holistic approach that addresses physical, emotional, and social well-being. By guiding best practices and systemic implementation, the framework serves as a valuable resource for institutions striving to create supportive, accessible, health-promoting campus environments.
ACHA endorsements and collaborations have demonstrated a strong support for mental health. Earlier this year, ACHA endorsed the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act of 2025 (HR 1305) which would direct the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a working group to formulate recommendations for standardizing the measurements of loneliness and isolation.
Additionally, we signed a letter from the Alliance for Connected Care which encouraged U.S. Congress to maintain permanent telehealth flexibilities for mental health.
In April, we signed a letter from the American Council on Education (ACE) to the House and Senate Labor-HHS Subcommittee to support an increase in funding and broadening the utilization of the Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) Campus Suicide Prevention Grant Program in FY 2026. This program helps institutions provide mental health and substance use prevention and intervention services for their students.
We will continue prioritizing mental health through our collaboration with ACE to develop a state-focused mental health toolkit. The toolkit will allow colleges to assess the provision of mental health services on campus while ensuring that students are receiving the appropriate care. This collaborative effort aims to empower institutions with actionable strategies to strengthen campus mental health systems and promote student success.
Together, these efforts reflect ACHA’s ongoing commitment to advancing the mental health of college students nationwide. As we continue to advocate for meaningful policy change, provide strategic guidance, and build partnerships that drive impact, ACHA remains dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to the support they need to thrive—on campus and beyond. Should you have any suggestions on how ACHA can further advance mental health awareness please do not hesitate to reach out by emailing advocacy@acha.org or using our advocacy feedback form.
Post Type
Advocacy Updates
