A new report argues campuses should stop relying solely on students to self-identify mental health needs, warning that retention is already being undermined by students who “go quiet.” The piece cites research suggesting 70% of college students report mental health struggles but only 37% seek support. It recommends using integrated behavioral engagement signals from student information systems, learning management platforms, financial aid portals, and chatbot interactions to detect disengagement earlier. The approach frames AI as a way to connect cross-system patterns—such as reduced LMS activity or missed advising steps—into timely interventions. For student success leaders, the implication is operational: mental health support may require proactive outreach workflows and data governance agreements across campus units to translate signals into action.
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