Discounts on insurance for colleges that implement mental health programs

United Educators, an insurance company owned by 1,600 K-12 and higher education institutions, will offer colleges and universities a discount on their premiums if they implement a schoolwide mental health program designed by the nonprofit JED, which focuses on emotional health and suicide prevention.

According to Inside Higher Ed, the mental health programs designed by JED require institutions to “create a team of administrators, faculty, staff and students to examine mental health on campus; conduct a student mental health survey; complete a self-assessment; and create a strategic plan to address mental health concerns.”

According to the nonprofit’s executive director, John MacPhee, some institutions have also created a 24/7 crisis hotline for students and shortened wait times at campus counseling centers.