Purpose
According to Debra Vandervoort and Vladimir Skorikov in an article published in the Spring 2002 edition of Current Psychology, “a substantial body of empirical evidence . . . has been amassed regarding the importance of a supportive social network” for optimal mental health.  Students who feel connected with the University and with each other may be less likely to experience emotional distress. The purpose of the TLC Campaign is to assist students in providing a strong supportive social network for each other by building on the strength of our Truman tradition of community and caring. The TLC Campaign has the following specific goals:

• To encourage students to support one another.
• To educate students regarding signs of emotional distress.
  
• To educate students on sources of information and assistance.
  
• To recognize student involvement in efforts to care for and support other students.
  
• To celebrate stories of compassion and service that carry on the tradition of caring in our Truman Community. 

Background
Much has been written about the current problems facing the young adult population in our country.  Dr. Vivian Boyd of the International Association of Counseling Services reported a 17 to 22% increase in cases of depression seen at counseling centers in colleges throughout the country.  A recent study of college students conducted by the American College Health Association found that 50% reported feeling very sad, 33.4% reported feeling hopeless, and 22.1% reported feeling so depressed they could not function three or more times in the previous year.  Although difficult to quantify, the aftermath of September 11, an uncertain financial future, corporate fraud, unpredictable acts of violence, and the threat of war may contribute to this apparent erosion of mental health in our young people.  Truman is not immune.  Our University Counseling Services has experienced similar increases in the quantity and severity of student concerns.