This study investigates how academic libraries can advocate for students experiencing mental health obstacles while promoting academic success. Student mental health distress may stem from a diagnosis, academic stress, unmet basic needs, or life circumstances. We explore what barriers staff encounter in these scenarios, and how academic libraries can build upon existing resources and practices to offer increased support for students’ well-being. Based on our research and interviews with academic library staff, we have developed a set of best practices that can be used by academic libraries to better advocate for and support higher education students experiencing mental health hardships.