Currently, students at the University of Maryland face numerous challenges in accessing mental health sick days. Mental health is a critical aspect of overall health and successful academic performance. Over 80% of college students felt overwhelmed by all they had to do in the past year and 45% have felt things were hopeless according to the American College Health Association. The World Health Organization mentions that good mental health enables people to realize their potential, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their communities.

The existing requirements and procedures for accessing mental health sick days deem it an unaffordable luxury for most students, rather than a necessary provision for behavior health wellness. By making mental health sick days more accessible for students, the University of Maryland can help mitigate the stress and anxiety that hampers academic performance.

We need to recognize mental health struggles as valid reasons for sick leaves, the same as we would a physical illness. Giving students accessible mental health sick days will not only improve psychological wellbeing but can lead to better academic outcomes. Let's stand up for student mental health. Sign to urge the University of Maryland to make mental health sick days more accessible for its students.