EMPOWERING COLLEGE STUDENTS WITH MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES: INTEGRATING COGNITIVE REMEDIATION THERAPY AND SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING FOR SUCCESS

College students facing mental health challenges often experience difficulties in their academic pursuits and overall well-being. This research paper explores a novel approach to support and empower these students by integrating cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) and social-emotional learning (SEL). Cognitive remediation therapy targets cognitive deficits that may impede learning and academic performance, while social-emotional learning fosters emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills. By combining these interventions, colleges can create a comprehensive support framework that addresses both cognitive and emotional aspects of students' lives. This study examines the benefits, challenges, and outcomes of implementing CRT and SEL within a college setting. Through interviews, surveys, and case studies, we capture insights from students, faculty, and mental health professionals, shedding light on how this integrated approach positively influences academic success, mental health, and overall well-being. The findings provide valuable guidance for educational institutions seeking to create inclusive environments that facilitate the success of college students facing mental health issues.