“Our Support. Your Success” is emblazoned across the headers of the official website of Howard Community College, boasting an imaginary perfect picture of seeming “aware,” as expected of any college in the 21st century—or wait… is it? It’s easy to scroll past dismissively, rolling our eyes or shrugging off what could seem to be slogans promising false support under the premise of luring in unsuspecting prospective students. But what if I told you there’s more behind these words than what meets the eye?

Two of HCC’s resources, the Counseling and Wellness Centers, which are geared towards supporting students’ mental and physical wellness, demonstrate that those slogans, bold as they may be, aren’t empty air. The link between the school’s support and students’ success is acknowledged in the multitude of services provided, from individual and group talk therapy, to acupuncture and massages at no cost to students. The heart of HCC’s mental health system, the Mental Health Counseling Center, states its goal as “providing a safe, non-judgmental place where individuals can discuss their concerns and promoting the emotional well-being of students in our community.” Individual and group counseling for students often requires students to schedule an appointment in advance but offers treatment plans that the student and counselors collaborate on. For students who need immediate support, the SAP (Student Assistance Program) runs 24/7 to connect students with care coordinators via call or text at 800-327-2251. Recognizing that every student’s journey is unique, HCC also offers self-help resources. These materials empower students to understand and address common concerns at their own pace, providing additional tools for personal growth and development.

HCC doesn’t believe it ends there. The Wellness Center is dedicated to promoting physical well-being and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Offering services ranging from acupuncture and massages to guidance from certified nurses, students have access to resources that nurture their overall well-being. Additionally, the campus food pantry encompasses physical well-being, too, ensuring students have access to nutritious food that can alleviate financial stress from students who may otherwise find it difficult to pursue academic endeavors.

Other mental health support organizations in Howard Country include:

Grassroots Crisis Intervention: a non-profit that runs both a 24/7 walk-in center and hotline (410-531-6677) offering support with crisis intervention, suicide prevention, substance use, and housing. 

CAREAPP Howard Country: an app and online tool that quickly finds and helps Howard County residents connect to services for education, employment, food, housing, health, and more with a few simple clicks. 

Call 998: an emergency emotional support hotline for residents in Howard, Baltimore, and Carroll Counties. Callers are connected to call centers that offer confidential mental health services.

Taking care of your mental health is incredibly important and has an impact on how we function daily. Never hesitate to use any of these resources even if you feel you only need a fraction of the services offered. Your mental health matters!