SPRINGFIELD – College students and staff in Illinois will have easier access to support systems under a new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) to create an online resource hub geared toward campus mental health.

“The past school year was full of unexpected stressors for students and professors alike,” Murphy said. “Under this law, the entire campus community can rely on readily accessible support to help them survive and thrive under pressure.”

The law requires the Department of Human Services to maintain a page on its website with mental health resources specifically tailored to post-secondary education institutions, their staff, students and families.

Currently, DHS provides digital brochures and links on its website of helpful tools for those who may be dealing with a mental health concern. However, the website does not contain provisions directly targeted to post-secondary education and its communities.

“Feelings of stress, anxiety and depression can be heightened in the high-intensity college environment, but there are resources available,” Murphy said. “No one should have to face those hardships alone.”

The law, originally Senate Bill 1786, takes effect immediately.