Stress, anxiety, and depression are common among college students.
College students face many new challenges.
Often for the first time, they’re living away from their families and communities. They’re suddenly presented with new surroundings, social situations, and a heavy academic workload.
Very often these new challenges can feel overwhelming, leading to depression or anxiety. Sometimes this extra pressure can worsen a previously existing condition or trigger its onset.
Many college students experience mental health challenges, two of the most common of these being anxiety and depression.
Often, the symptoms are short-term and can be directly linked to the challenges of being a new student, such as feelings of loneliness. Sometimes it can take a semester or two for students to develop friendships. This transition time may temporarily affect many students’ mental health as a 2012 study found that social support is one of the most important factors for promoting well-being in college students.
Once students begin gaining a sense of belonging at school, many will find their anxiety and depression symptoms begin subsiding as well. Other students, however, may find their symptoms to be the start of a mental health disorder.
In fact, early adulthood is when many mental health disorders first appear. A 2014 study revealed that by age 25,
The distress that comes with anxiety and depression can impact many aspects of a student’s life.
If you’re considering self-harm or suicide, you’re not alone
You can access free support right away with these resources:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.Call the Lifeline at 988 for English or Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- The Crisis Text Line.Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
- The Trevor Project. LGBTQIA+ and under 25 years old? Call 866-488-7386, text “START” to 678678, or chat online 24/7.
- Veterans Crisis Line.Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online 24/7.
- Deaf Crisis Line.Call 321-800-3323, text “HAND” to 839863, or visit their website.
- Befrienders Worldwide.This international crisis helpline network can help you find a local helpline.
How common is anxiety among college students?
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders, affecting about
Some of the most common anxiety disorders include:
- social anxiety
- panic disorder
- generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
While social anxiety often begins in childhood or adolescence (usually around ages 7-14), the other anxiety disorders may first appear or get triggered during the stressful college years.
But even among students who aren’t diagnosed with a specific anxiety disorder, many are vulnerable to high levels of anxiety in college.
A 2018 survey found that 63% of college students in the United States reported feeling “overwhelming anxiety” in the past year. About 23% reported being diagnosed or treated by a mental health professional in the past year.
Anxiety has spiked in college students in recent years. A small
How common is depression in college students?
Depression occurs in about
Suicide is also a major concern, as it’s the third leading cause of death among young adults, according to the
Are mental health problems increasing among students?
Mental health is a growing concern on college campuses across the United States. According to a 2018 study, more than 95% of directors at college counseling centers report that managing students’ mental health is a growing concern.
This study also revealed that mental health problems have increased significantly among college students in recent decades. The number of students entering college with a mental health disorder has increased as well.
While it’s not entirely clear what’s causing this trend, a 2018 study suggests that adolescents who spent more time on electronic devices (social media, smartphones, and gaming) and less time engaging in activities without electronics had decreased psychological well-being.
What are common symptoms of anxiety and depression?
(Video) Why you should take a break: Prioritizing mental health in schools | Hailey Hardcastle | TEDxSalem
What are common symptoms of anxiety and depression?
Symptoms of anxiety vary among individuals, but may include the following symptoms:
- poor concentration
- feelings of restlessness or being on edge
- worry or nervousness
- muscle tension
- feeling fatigued or weak
- sleep difficulties
- feeling out of control
- sense of impending doom
- fast heart rate
- sweating
- trembling or shaking
- stomachaches or headaches
- rapid breathing
Symptoms of depression may include:
- persistent low mood
- fatigue
- feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, or pessimism
- irritability
- emotional numbness
- loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- poor concentration and memory
- moving or talking more slowly
- feeling restless
- insomnia or oversleeping
- appetite or weight changes
- aches and pains without a clear cause
- thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempt
In the past couple decades, several
From social to academic stressors, not only do college students face many challenges, but many mental health disorders begin during this time.
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- psychological
- academic
- biological
- lifestyle
- social
- financial
Within these categories, some of the most common risk factors include:
- underlying mental health condition
- substance use
- academic pressure
- low self-esteem or self-confidence
- inadequate sleep
- lack of social support
- financial problems
- in a minority group
- internet addiction
Most college-related psychological stress happens in the first year of college. Receiving the right treatment can make all the difference for students in both their academic success and overall well-being. However, currently, many students aren’t receiving the help they need.
A large online survey from 2011 found that only 36% of students experiencing a mental health problem had received treatment in the previous year.
Reasons for not seeking help include:
- fear of stigma
- not perceiving treatment as essential or urgent
- lack of time
- denial of symptoms
- lack of adequate treatment options
- financial struggles
Besides reaching out to a mental health professional, there are several things students can do to help cope with symptoms of anxiety and depression:
- Try not to avoid your stressors. Whether you’re dealing with social anxiety or test anxiety, try to tackle the things that scare you most. Maybe this involves going to a party or getting started on your next big assignment. Getting started is often the hardest part, but once you get going, it often becomes easier and you gain self-confidence.
- Practice self-care. Never underestimate the power of healthy eating, exercising, and getting enough sleep. When possible, try to spend time outside, make time with friends, and practice sleep hygiene. Limiting or avoiding alcohol or other substances can also help.
- Seek out resources. Check to see if your campus has mental health services or mental health support groups. The Center for Online Education offers a large list of resources for college students seeking mental health support. You can also seek an outside mental health counselor.
If you’re a college student living with anxiety, depression, or both, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Most campuses have mental health counselors who can provide you with support.
Getting the right diagnosis and treatment can significantly increase your well-being and help you better cope with the everyday stressors of college life. Remember, college may be about gaining independence but you are not alone.
FAQs
Why do college students have so much anxiety? ›
Uncertainty about the future can often lead to increased anxiety. Even if the student knows that many of their peers are also dealing with school stress, personal experience with anxiety can cause them to feel isolated and alone due to the severity of the symptoms, especially if it is the first time.
What are the main causes of depression in college students? ›- Relationship breakup.
- Sexual assault.
- Peer relationship difficulties.
- Sexual identity adjustment difficulties.
- Drug or alcohol use.
- Family history of depression.
- Stressful life events.
College students commonly experience stress because of increased responsibilities, a lack of good time management, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and not taking enough breaks for self-care. Transitioning to college can be a source of stress for most first-year students.
How does anxiety affect a college student's ability to succeed in college? ›When someone is experiencing anxiety or depression the majority of their mental capacity is used to create and process worrisome thoughts. This can make it extremely difficult to focus on positive thoughts and can be very exhausting for the student, which detracts from their learning abilities.
Why do college students suffer from anxiety and depression? ›College students face many new challenges. Often for the first time, they're living away from their families and communities. They're suddenly presented with new surroundings, social situations, and a heavy academic workload. Very often these new challenges can feel overwhelming, leading to depression or anxiety.
Why do college students struggle with mental health? ›Entering college can trigger mental health disorders
Even if someone doesn't develop a formal disorder, they might still struggle. It's difficult to navigate the stress of the transition to college. An overwhelming workload, unfamiliar environment, and other stressors can lead to a mental health crisis.
Other stressors
Financial stresses brought about by the rising cost of college, including the dread of debt and fear of not getting a job after college and having to move back in with mom and dad after graduation, are associated with increased risk for depression and anxiety in college students.
Academic workload and lack of engagement in social activities, especially during exam time, are risk factors of stress and anxiety. A lack of balance between academic and social life causes formation of anxiety and depression among students in American universities.
What is the biggest reason for depression? ›There's no single cause of depression. It can occur for a variety of reasons and it has many different triggers. For some people, an upsetting or stressful life event, such as bereavement, divorce, illness, redundancy and job or money worries, can be the cause. Different causes can often combine to trigger depression.
What is the number one stressor for college students? ›Overall, 88 percent of college students reported their school life to be stressful. Education and medical majors reported the highest levels of stress, though, followed by psychology, arts, and the sciences. The biggest stressor for students was exams (89 percent). Financial issues weren't too far behind, though.
Why is there so much pressure on college students? ›
When college students begin college they experience pressure from multiple sources. For example, they experience pressure from their parents to succeed, from their professors, and pressure from themselves to do well in classes. This pressure could lead to high anxiety and possibly even poor performance in classes.
What is the most consistently reported top stressor for college students? ›Academic demands and test anxiety
Concerns about academic performance are one of the most common trigger points of stress for college students.
- Advocate for yourself. ...
- Take advantage of your campus resources. ...
- Exercise. ...
- Sleep. ...
- Grounding techniques. ...
- Create a comfort box. ...
- Create a playlist. ...
- Make your dorm comfortable.
College students are in a high-risk age group for panic disorder, as it most frequently is diagnosed during young adulthood. GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER (GAD): characterized by excessive worry or fear about everyday life events that is difficult to control.
How do college students deal with anxiety decisions? ›- Don't confuse your past with your child's future. ...
- Avoid all-or-nothing style thinking. ...
- Discuss best-case and worst-case scenarios. ...
- Remind your teen who they are as a whole person. ...
- Practice daily stress-relieving skills – for yourself.
- #1. Underdeveloped brains. ...
- #2. New environment, new challenges. ...
- #3. Separation from the support system of family and friends. ...
- #4. Lack of sleep. ...
- #5. Uncertainty and fear of the future.
Overnight, college students separate from their traditional support system of family and friends. They also face many new challenges, such as living with roommates, managing heavy workloads, and developing an independent identity. It's no surprise that anxiety often spikes during college.
Why do college students feel lonely? ›Students feel alone at various points throughout college often triggered by the unfamiliarity of a new routine, uncertainty about their education or major, isolation from family and friends, and lack of friendships and connections if they are new to college.
Is mental health getting worse for college students? ›Researchers discovered that the mental health of college students has been on a steady decline for all eight years of data. There was a 135-percent increase in depression and 110-percent increase in anxiety from 2013 to 2021.
Are universities causing anxiety and mental problems to students? ›From the results, it showed that students who were in their first and second academic year exhibited a risk of anxiety 3.06 times more (OR = 3.06; 95% CI = 1.43–6.51) while students who were in their third and fourth academic year showed a risk of anxiety 2.95 times more (OR = 2.95; 95% CI = 1.35–6.47) as compared to ...
Does education lead to depression? ›
Educational attainment is associated with depressive symptoms and may affect depression through various socioeconomic pathways.
How does academic stress lead to depression? ›Based on the stress response theory, students exposed to a high academic stress environment may experience anxiety, and this anxiety may further contribute to the occurrence of depression. The other factor which may mediate the effect of academic stress on depressive symptoms is hopelessness.
What does anxiety look like in a college student? ›Other warning signs are prolonged feelings of sadness or despair, excessive anxiety or panic, isolation or withdrawal from typical daily activities, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, giving away possessions, changes in personal hygiene, and excessive use of alcohol or other drugs, which are often used by students ...
What is the leading cause of depression and anxiety? ›Experiencing traumatic or stressful events, such as physical or sexual abuse, the death of a loved one, or financial problems. Going through a major life change‚ even if it was planned. Having a medical problem, such as cancer, stroke, or chronic pain. Taking certain medications.
What are the 4 main causes of depression? ›- Genetics. One of the most influential factors in the onset of major depression is outside your control: your genetic code. ...
- Substance Abuse. ...
- Early Childhood Experiences. ...
- Major Life Events (Both Immediate and Prolonged)
Major depression is most likely to affect people between the ages of 45 and 65.
What year is the most stressful in college? ›Junior Year is the Most Stressful for Students, but They Aren't Alone.
What are college students most concerned about? ›Students are mostly concerned about money, cost of living, and economic instability. These concerns dominate safety and health-related issues. Students are willing to take on the cost of education if they believe it will ultimately lead to a higher-paying career.
Why is university so stressful? ›College students have to spend their nights studying or preparing for a presentation the next morning. Continuous pressure to perform well forces them and leads to sleep deprivation, which eventually causes stress, anxiety, or even depression. Some courses demand that every student should participate in the class.
Do students cheat because of pressure? ›There are many reasons why students decide to cheat. One of the most common is pressure to succeed. That means that to get better grades and stand out among their peers, students are ready to behave unethically.
What are the cause of stress among students of higher education essay? ›
Students may experience stress due to poor sleeping habits, academic pressure, and poor nutrition and unhealthy eating habits. Students need enough sleep and less pressure for their brain to relax and recharge for it to function well. They also need to avoid stress-inducing foods such as fries and sodas.
Is college more stressful than school? ›You get so much freedom in college versus high school, but the pressure and the responsibility is higher, if you choose to own it. You have less requirements on what classes you need to take, just make sure you take enough classes.
What is the number 1 stressor in life? ›Capital One released the results of a new CreditWise survey, in line with National Get Smart About Credit Day. Results uncovered that finances are the number-one cause of stress. If the state of your finances is stressing you out, you're far from alone.
What are three big sources of stress for students? ›- examinations.
- deadlines.
- returning to study.
- pressure of combining paid work and study.
- difficulty in organising work.
- poor time management.
- leaving assignments to the last minute.
- out of control debts.
- Time stress.
- Anticipatory stress.
- Situational stress.
- Encounter stress.
Uncertainty about the future can often lead to increased anxiety. Even if the student knows that many of their peers are also dealing with school stress, personal experience with anxiety can cause them to feel isolated and alone due to the severity of the symptoms, especially if it is the first time.
How common is depression and anxiety in college students? ›Up to 44% of college students reported having symptoms of depression and anxiety.
› anxiety-in-college-stu... ›Anxiety in College Students: Signs, Symptoms & Treatments
Anxiety in college: What we know and how to cope - Harvard Health
College Anxiety Guide for 2020 (New) | Learn to Cope | Buckeye ...
Take a mental health day to unwind from your fast-paced college life. Do things you enjoy in your spare time. Yoga classes can go a long way in helping you control stress and anxiety. Go for a walk or practice deep breathing.
What is the leading cause of anxiety in students? ›Academic workload and lack of engagement in social activities, especially during exam time, are risk factors of stress and anxiety. A lack of balance between academic and social life causes formation of anxiety and depression among students in American universities.
What is the most common anxiety disorder in college students? ›
College students are in a high-risk age group for panic disorder, as it most frequently is diagnosed during young adulthood. GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER (GAD): characterized by excessive worry or fear about everyday life events that is difficult to control.
What do college students fear the most? ›Choosing the Right Major
This is one of the most common fears that every college student has, whether you're an incoming freshman or senior. It can be really scary to have to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life when you're still really young.
Other warning signs are prolonged feelings of sadness or despair, excessive anxiety or panic, isolation or withdrawal from typical daily activities, thoughts of self-harm or suicide, giving away possessions, changes in personal hygiene, and excessive use of alcohol or other drugs, which are often used by students ...
Why do you think depression rates are much higher in the college students of today? ›Other stressors
Financial stresses brought about by the rising cost of college, including the dread of debt and fear of not getting a job after college and having to move back in with mom and dad after graduation, are associated with increased risk for depression and anxiety in college students.
- #1. Underdeveloped brains. ...
- #2. New environment, new challenges. ...
- #3. Separation from the support system of family and friends. ...
- #4. Lack of sleep. ...
- #5. Uncertainty and fear of the future.
| Rank | Fear | Percent "afraid" or "very afraid" |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Loved ones dying | 65% |
| 2 | Loved ones becoming seriously ill | 64% |
| 3 | Mass shootings | 60% |
| 4 | Not having enough money for retirement | 54% |
They might fear college life or a difficult career if they should succeed. Sometimes students are afraid of leaving others, like family members or friends, behind if they succeed. These students need to be reminded that they are in control of their lives and can decide how far they go.
› ... › Mental Well-Being ›