Active Minds — Free Mental Health Peer Chapters — College & High School
Active Minds is the largest nonprofit in the United States mobilizing young people to transform mental health norms in their schools and communities. Through a network of 500+ peer-led chapters at colleges and high schools across the country, Active Minds gives students a place to talk about mental health openly, support each other, and lead change. While Active Minds chapters are technically advocacy and peer-mobilization groups rather than formal peer support groups, they consistently become support networks for their members — and many students describe their chapter as the most consistent mental health community they have.
What to Expect
Each Active Minds chapter is started and led by students for students. Chapters meet on a regular schedule on their campus, plan events to reduce mental health stigma, organize speakers and resource fairs, and create space for honest conversation about anxiety, depression, stress, identity, and the realities of being a young person today. The format is youth-driven: chapter leaders decide what their school needs, and Active Minds national staff provide training, materials, and a national community of other chapter leaders. Beyond chapter meetings, members can connect with the national community through Active Minds programs, conferences, and online networks.
Who This Group Is For
Active Minds chapters serve middle school, high school, and college students. Members include students with their own mental health experiences and allies who want to be part of changing the culture around mental health on their campus. The peer-mobilization model means the strongest fit is for students who want both connection and the chance to do something — to be part of a community that’s actively working to make their school a healthier place. Active Minds is intentional that chapters are not therapy; students who need clinical care are connected to professional resources through the organization’s referral guides.
Why Peer Support Works
About 39% of college students experience a significant mental health issue, and 75% of mental health conditions begin by age 24. The combination of peer leadership, advocacy work, and community gives young people a way to be active about their own well-being and the well-being of those around them. Research on Active Minds has found that chapter participation lowers stigma, increases knowledge of resources, improves attitudes toward treatment, and reduces depression and anxiety symptoms in participating students.
How to Join
Active Minds chapters are free to join for students at participating schools. Visit activeminds.org/programs/chapters to find an existing chapter, request information about starting one at your school, or learn about Active Minds’ other programs for young people. Students looking for additional mental health support can use Active Minds’ referral resources page, which curates national crisis lines, peer support platforms, and clinical care directories.