Tennessee grants $900K for mental health support at three universities

Tennessee college students will soon have enhanced access to mental health services thanks to a new initiative approved by the Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee. During a meeting on March 4, 2025, the committee greenlit a $900,000 grant aimed at providing on-campus mental health support at three universities: the University of Tennessee at Martin, Tennessee Tech University, and Bethel University.

The funding will enable the hiring of six mental health professionals—two at each campus—who will work directly within the primary care clinics. This includes a licensed mental health therapist and a case manager, with a psychiatrist available for consultation. The initiative is a response to increasing mental health needs among students, particularly as suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among young adults.

The decision to partner with these specific colleges was influenced by their recent outreach for additional mental health support. The program aims to supplement existing state-funded services and improve access to mental health resources for students. The majority of the grant, $810,000, will be allocated to the community mental health centers responsible for hiring the new staff, while the remaining funds will cover administrative costs.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment to addressing mental health challenges in educational settings, with the state also engaging with community colleges through various support programs. The committee's approval marks a significant step toward enhancing mental health services for Tennessee's college students, aiming to foster a healthier campus environment.