CUMU Conference 2019

Today’s youth are increasingly exposed to first- and second-hand experiences of trauma. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that about 37% of youth have experienced a physical assault and 15% have experienced maltreatment by a care-giver in a one-year period. Furthermore, race, gender, and poverty status increase these chances exponentially. This means that, more than ever before, college-age students are dealing with traumatic exposure and the possible consequence of trauma. These consequences include: increased chances of mental health issues, suicidal ideation, missed days of school and work, challenges learning, withdrawal from peer-supports and adult mentors, and substance use. Urban colleges and universities are uniquely placed to be able to reach students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are at-risk of drop out from college. Understanding and addressing trauma is critical to keep students connected to valuable opportunities, like school and work experiences, that are necessary for personal and professional well-being later in life.