RT Journal
A1 Mechanick P, Rappaport BS, Scaramella TJ, Vatz KA, Winig HR
T1 NEw concept in university community mental health services
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 1969
FD June 30
VO 208
IS 13
SP 2453
OP 2456
DO 10.1001/jama.1969.03160130037009
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.1969.03160130037009
AB A group of medical students under faculty supervision has developed an experimental advisory service to assist troubled college students who are reluctant to seek formal psychiatric care because of fears of its "stigma," suspicion of university administration, and/or a belief that older professional personnel cannot understand the problems of their generation. A medical student advisor has unique positive attributes of clinical training and experience, yet is of peer age. Walk-in centers ("Talking Points"), located at strategic areas on campus, are manned during key hours. Complete anonymity of contacts is guaranteed. Psychiatric staff members hold regular supervisory sessions to review cases. In the first 14 weeks of operation, 71 clients (1% of the undergraduate population) were seen. Problems have included depression, social maladjustment, incipient psychosis, fear of pregnancy, and suicidal attempts. Clients requiring professional care are referred.