Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) — Lincoln Land Community College will receive $120,000 as part of a statewide effort to enhance mental health services at Illinois community colleges. The Illinois Community College Board has allocated more than $3.6 million in funding to 32 institutions in 2025, aiming to improve access to support services for students facing mental health challenges.

“We know many college students nationwide face mental health challenges. A recent U.S. News survey revealed nearly 70% of college students report struggling with their mental health. This investment will help community colleges better meet the needs of students outside the classroom, contributing to their success in the classroom,” said ICCB executive director Brian Durham.

Colleges will use the funds in at least one of four ways: developing and expanding peer support programs, increasing the number of students served through local partnerships, enhancing services for underserved populations, and establishing reimbursement procedures.

In highlighting the need for more mental health services, ICCB points to a 2023 Healthy Minds study of 800 campuses across the nation. The research found 41% of college students exhibited clinically significant symptoms of depression, while one in three screened positive for anxiety.