Are you helping other students who are dealing with emotional issues? Do you tell your story in public to help reduce stigma around mental illness? Have you started an organization to raise awareness around mental health? Apply online here for a chance to win the 2010 Jerry Greenspan Student Voice of Mental Health Award — a $2,000 prize, a trip to New York, and an opportunity to appear on mtvU!

With America's health care in debate, this is a critical time to urge your elected officials to ensure that improving mental health is a key part of health care reform. Get involved by contacting your Senators and Representatives and emphasizing the importance of mental health in health care reform.

Half of all college students say they haven been unable to function due to stress or other emotional issues but only one out of five young people were asked about their mental health when visiting a healthcare professional last year. Two-thirds of youth and young adults who have a mental health problem are simply not getting the help that they need. The CheckUp08 campaign is a partnership of leading mental health organizations who are encouraging the Presidential candidates and other politicians to endorse access to mental health check-ups for every young American. You can join the effort by signing CheckUp08’s online petition or writing your representative.

Active Minds develops and supports student-run mental health awareness programs on campuses across the country. Students work to create environments where mental health issues can be discussed openly; provide information about campus, community and online resources; and link up students and the mental health community.

Find a chapter on your campus, or start one today.

Have you had personal experience with mental health issues yourself or through someone you know? Sharing your story helps others who are dealing with the same issues understand that they aren’t alone and that they can reach out for support. Help other students and fight the stigma by emailing us your story.