We start DMAX Clubs on college campuses, because we believe that a community of supportive peers can be a very empowering experience.

DMAX Clubs are student-led mental health clubs that use a “Friends Helping Friends” model, instead of a therapist or paraprofessional facilitator. Since research shows that young adults tend to go to their friends first when they’re struggling or stressed out, DMAX Clubs lean in to what college students do naturally.

DMAX Clubs serve as inclusive and non-judgmental spaces to have deep, meaningful conversations about how students are really doing. Our Clubs have shared that topics such as academic stress, body image, relationships and the future are frequently discussed during DMAX Club meetings.

To support our Clubs, we provide a variety of resources, leadership development workshops, and events. Our DMAX Digital Orientation trains Club leaders on key topics, such as active listening, campus emergency procedures, when referrals are necessary and how to make them, and how to avoid engaging in “therapy.”

Step 1:

What makes DMAX Clubs special?

These meetings allow students to open up and talk about real life struggles.

Alaina at University of Maryland

I now have a place to go and vocalize the way I'm feeling, talk about what stressors I'm dealing with and share how my own mental illness affects me.

Cindy at Drexel University

I think fostering such an important, friendly [and] positive environment is key to breaking down not just the stigma [of] mental health but really getting people to engage with it and talk about it on a much deeper level.

Lauren at Penn State University

When I found out about DMAX Club, I was glad that it focused on mental well-being instead of mental illness. Mental health is important for everyone, and people need to realize that.

Heather at Temple University

DMAX allows students to have an outlet from the outside world and to meet with a group of people that bring positive energy and friendship.

Cate at Lehigh University

I realized the importance of somebody saying these three things: You are not alone, I am here for you, and I get it. And that’s what these DMAX clubs are all about and why they are so needed on college campuses.

Danni at Penn State Brandywine

Through telling my story and discussing issues surrounding mental health through DMAX, I have been able to have more personal discussions about my mental health more confidently.

Janneris at at Millsersville

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