

Christopher Willard et al., "College Mental Health 101: A Guide for Students, Parents, and Professionals" (Oxford UP, 2025)
Sep 7, 2025
Christopher Willard, a clinical psychologist and Harvard educator, discusses vital mental health issues affecting today's college students. He highlights alarming statistics on anxiety and depression while offering practical advice from his book, "College Mental Health 101." Topics include the importance of mental health resources, understanding therapy compatibility, and the unique challenges faced by religious students. Willard also addresses the risks of self-diagnosis and emphasizes resilience as a key to thriving during college transitions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Author's Personal College Struggle
- Christopher Willard spent six years finishing undergrad and used that experience to shape the book.
- He now works with college-aged clients and wrote the book as a kind of homecoming to help others.
College Years Are A Peak Risk Window
- Many mental health issues first appear between ages 16 and 28, and college is a peak period for onset and visibility.
- Reduced stigma increases self-recognition, while transitions and biology also trigger new or worsening symptoms.
Choose Colleges By Personal Trade-Offs
- Ask targeted questions about supports, bureaucracy, and living fit when choosing a college rather than looking for a single right answer.
- Match school features to your personal needs (resources, environment, cost) and weigh trade-offs deliberately.