The Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded $2.5 million to the University of Notre Dame.

The funds will help the university advance its holistic approach to mental health for students' well-being and restoration, according to a press release from the University of Notre Dame. 

“Mental health problems affect thousands of college students each year, contributing to growing rates of anxiety and depression among all young adults. This is especially true now, with the added stress and anxiety of the coronavirus pandemic,” Notre Dame President Rev. John Jenkins, C.S.C., said in the press release. “This generous grant from Lilly Endowment will help us to increase access to mental health services across campus, so that every Notre Dame student may thrive.”

Many higher education institutes struggle with student mental health. Data from surveys shows that one in three college students suffer from mental health and need counseling. 

"Notre Dame currently offers counseling and other mental health services, including crisis prevention, through the University Counseling Center, University Health Services, the Center for Student Support and Care and the McDonald Center for Student Well-Being — all part of the Division of Student Affairs," the university said in the press release.