"Chemistry has moved into a position in which the research is going into a very high level," he said. "It's very exciting, but a very intense environment."

Students say they agree that they could use all the advice they can get.

"It seems like it wouldn't be a bad idea for any department to ensure the best support possible," said Laurie Deiner, a third-year chemistry graduate student. "I think any grad experience would be an intense one."

In addition to meeting privately and confidentially with students, Hallowell has also given talks on topics like teaching students how to recognize the signs that they are beginning to isolate themselves too much.

Anderson said the department secured the psychiatrist's services in part because its members felt University resources open to all graduate students are not necessarily completely confidential.

But Ducey said that the University's mental health clinics--including the Bureau of Study Counsel--has an ethical obligation of confidentiality that binds the staff.

The problem, he said, is that students do not always feel comfortable taking the initiative in seeking help.

"Students who actually seek out and fully utilize these services generally find them sufficient to address their academic and psychological issues and needs," he said.