In March 2022, the Stanford community faced an immense tragedy with the death of Katie Meyer, a senior and co-captain of the women’s soccer team, who died by suicide. This heartbreaking event came just after three other student deaths at the university, all attributed to suicide within a little more than a year. The loss of Meyer not only devastated friends and family but also ignited a critical dialogue surrounding mental health resources on college campuses, particularly at Stanford.
In the wake of this tragedy, university administrators, family members, and state lawmakers began reassessing the existing structures in place to support the mental health of students. This scrutiny has led to significant changes intended to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of mental health services at Stanford.
Current State of Mental Health Services
A 2022 survey conducted by the Associated Students of Stanford University (ASSU) revealed concerning statistics: nearly 60% of students reported difficulties in obtaining timely appointments with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), with over a third describing the services as either "extremely" or "somewhat" inaccessible. Reports indicated that CAPS struggled with staffing issues, facing recruitment problems and internal departures that hindered service provision.
Recognizing these challenges, Stanford has implemented several new initiatives aimed at improving mental health support. According to Bina Patel, the long-serving director of CAPS, ensuring the mental well-being of students is a top priority for the university. Patel noted that average wait times for initial appointments have reportedly dropped to less than two days, a significant improvement since the numerous delays reported around 2022.
One notable introduction is the TimelyCare program, which offers students 24/7 virtual health care, including mental health support and therapy sessions. For more complex issues, students can connect with specialized services through Stanford’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (DoPBS). These services include innovative treatment options for depression and expedited access for enrolled students, although these are not offered free of charge.
The efforts to enhance community engagement have become a key component of CAPS operations. Workshops for various student populations, including those in grief, queer students, and academic writers, have started to take root, allowing a broader reach and more personalized care within the diverse student body.
Recent surveys conducted by Vaden, Stanford’s health services, indicated that over 90% of students found CAPS staff helpful, affirming their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment dedicated to student well-being.
Ongoing Mental Health Campaigns
Stanford is also promoting mental health awareness through campus initiatives. This May, the university’s wellness newsletter, The Flourish, hosted its second annual wellness event. These occasions fostered connection and resources among students and mental health professionals, aiming to empower the community in recognizing the importance of mental health.
Legislative Action and Wider Reform
The impact of Katie Meyer’s death extended beyond Stanford’s campus. Motivated by loss, her parents, Steven and Gina Meyer, founded Katie’s Save, a nonprofit focusing on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The organization quickly gained momentum, allowed the Meyers to share their message at various events, and contributed significantly to legislative discussions.
In September 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1575, also known as Katie Meyer’s Law. This legislation was created to ensure that students in California’s public universities benefit from a designated advisor during the disciplinary process—support that many believe is crucial for students navigating the complexities of adulthood.
While this important legislation does not cover private institutions like Stanford, the message has prompted other schools to consider similar initiatives to attract and retain students by enhancing their mental health resources.
Despite these efforts and the rising advocacy, the Meyer family has faced challenges in their pursuit of accountability and recognition from Stanford. They have expressed disappointment at Stanford’s lack of engagement with Katie’s Save and its advocacy to implement similar protective measures, underlining the university’s absence in honoring Katie’s memory through mental health-related events.
Attorney Kim Dougherty, representing the Meyer family, reiterated the wish for Stanford to adopt safety nets similar to those established by Katie’s Law, pointing out that the university’s refusal to do so contributes to the ongoing struggles students face.
The Path Forward
While positive changes are indicative of progress, the ongoing battle for mental health equity remains a pressing issue at Stanford and other institutions. College can be an overwhelming time filled with transitions, and adequate mental health support is essential for student success and well-being.
The initiatives outlined above signal strides toward progress, yet the commitment to developing an educational environment that genuinely prioritizes student mental health is an ongoing journey. The losses that have impacted so many have driven conversations, policy changes, and continued advocacy, ultimately shaping a more aware and supportive campus community.
Mental health remains an urgent topic that requires focus and action. The landscape may shift as awareness grows and students feel empowered to discuss their struggles openly. As more institutions align their resources with student needs, fostering healthy, supportive environments will become increasingly vital.
In the wake of such tragic losses, it is imperative for universities to create pathways that not only honor student sacrifices but actively work to prevent further tragedies. Staying engaged in this critical dialogue and advocating for the necessary changes will shape a future where every student feels seen, supported, and ultimately thrives.
If you or a loved one is struggling, it’s crucial to reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers support at 988, where individuals can connect with trained professionals ready to listen and guide those in need.
