the rising tide of stress and anxiety among college students

SHREYAANVI SHARATH – In recent years, the mental health challenges faced by college students have gained increasing attention. The transition from high school to college, coupled with academic pressures, financial concerns, and the quest for personal identity, has created a perfect storm of stress and anxiety on campuses across the globe. According to a national survey conducted by the American College Health Association (ACHA) in 2018, 63% of college students reported experiencing overwhelming anxiety in the past year. Furthermore, 43% reported feeling so depressed that it was difficult to function. These statistics paint a stark picture of the mental health challenges faced by college students today, and the situation may have evolved even further since then.

There are many factors in a college student’s life that add to their overwhelming anxiety and depression.  

1. Academic Pressure: The relentless pursuit of academic excellence has become a norm, with students juggling demanding coursework, internships, leadership positions and extracurricular activities. The pressure to maintain high grades can lead to sleep deprivation, burnout, and increased stress levels or even self-harm. I have personally experienced this, and have also seen so many of my peers pulling multiple all-nighters. One friend of mine had to go to the ER because of low hemoglobin and low iron from staying up two days in a row while studying for a final. They had to spend months focusing on themselves and becoming healthy again.

2. Financial Strain: Skyrocketing tuition costs, coupled with the burden of student loans, can lead to financial stress and anxiety. The fear of debt can hang over students’ heads, affecting their mental well-being. Many students have to work while in school, and that can also increase stress and anxiety, from having to balance their work and school life while also budgeting their money in a proper way. 

3. Identity and Future Uncertainty: College is a time of self-discovery and personal growth, but it can also be a period of intense identity questioning and uncertainty about the future. This quest for identity can contribute to feelings of anxiety, with some students undecided about their major, and not knowing what exactly interests them. Or for students who have graduated, might not know whether to go into graduate school or start searching for a job. And for those students hunting for a job, the job market is a very competitive place and some may not even get a job for months later, because there are a higher level of applicants, and a higher level of inflation for jobs, coupled with many other reasons. 

4. Lack of Access to Mental Health Services: Despite the growing need, many colleges struggle to provide adequate mental health support. Long wait times, limited resources, and stigma associated with seeking help can discourage students from seeking assistance. Some mental health services can be very expensive as well, and money is usually the first determining factor for students. According to the New York Times, the average cost of student health coverage ranges between $2000 to $4000 for the academic year.  And according to Forbes Health, the average cost of therapy ranges from $100 to $200 per session and this value can fluctuate depending on whether you have insurance or not. 

The consequences of unchecked stress and anxiety can be profound. Poor mental health can lead to a decline in academic performance, making it difficult for students to meet their goals and graduate on time. Additionally, these conditions can affect physical health, leading to symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and even chronic illnesses. In severe cases, stress and anxiety can lead to substance abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation and more . It is crucial to recognize that these mental health challenges can have long-lasting effects on a student’s overall well-being and future prospects.

Colleges and universities are increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing stress and anxiety among their student populations. To combat these issues, institutions have implemented a range of strategies:

1. Mental Health Services and Wellness Programs: Many colleges now offer on-campus counseling services, providing students with a safe space to discuss their concerns with trained professionals. Institutions have also introduced wellness programs that focus on stress reduction, mindfulness, and coping strategies. UGA has services such as CAPS counseling, Student Care and Outreach and more!

2. Peer Support Networks: Peer-led support groups and mentoring programs can provide students with a sense of belonging and understanding from their peers who may have faced similar challenges. 

3. Academic Support: Creating a supportive academic environment that includes tutoring, academic advisors, and flexible scheduling can help alleviate the academic pressures students face. At UGA, there are multiple resources that can help aid students, you can find the list here. 

4. Online Resources: The proliferation of mental health apps and online resources has given students additional tools to manage stress and anxiety. These include meditation apps, stress management courses, and crisis hotlines. Some free apps include MindShift and Take a Break! There are other free and (some paid) self-care apps available that would be worth checking out as a great alternative to expensive ones. 

These developments offer hope for improvement. While challenges remain, different strategies all contribute to a more positive outlook for the well-being of college students. Through continued efforts we can create a healthier and more conducive environment for academic and personal growth among the college population.

Copy Editor – Sameeka Prabath

Photography Source – https://www.fau.edu/newsdesk/articles/coping-college-study.php