Discussing mental health for students was once taboo. Many college learners feared discussing their mental health issues and challenges during their studies. Fortunately, things are changing, allowing students with mental health issues to admit and seek help.
But how many students have mental health issues, and should students get mental health days off from school? These questions about mental health for students, and many others regarding students’ mental health, inform this discussion. Here is one of the best mental health articles for students that answers all these questions. It also shares practical tips to help you care for your mental health during peak seasons. Keep reading to enjoy a healthy mental life in college.
Worrying College Students’ Mental Health Statistics
It’s not a secret anymore that many college students suffer from mental health challenges. Moreover, students’ mental health during COVID worsened because of social isolation and the pressure of COVID-related risks. But how many college students have mental health issues?
When it comes to measuring mental health in students, statistics are not optimistic. Let’s start with a 2021 study by the National College Health Assessment that revealed about 30% of student respondents admitted the negative effect of anxiety on academic performance. It also showed that just over 20% of learners had been diagnosed with depression by a healthcare expert. Below are the five main areas in which students suffer mental challenges and relevant mental health statistics college students exhibit.
Suicidal Ideation and Intent
Suicidal ideation is planning to kill oneself. Many mental health experts consider overwhelming suicidal thoughts a mental health emergency. A 2018 study by Harvard Medical School discovered that 1 in 5 US college students contemplated suicide. Another 2021 Healthy Minds Study showed that in 2020, 5% of respondents considered suicide but didn’t attempt it.
Anxiety
Most modern people experience anxiety regularly. However, mounting anxiety disrupts students’ daily lives. This disruption becomes a medical condition requiring treatment. A 2016 Pennsylvania State University study found that 61% of survey respondents mentioned anxiety as the top student mental health challenge.
Depression
Depression is a mood disorder involving persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It causes mood swings, poor sleep patterns, poor appetite, headaches, and other bodily pains without clear physical causes.
A 2021 Healthy Minds Study discovered that 22% of college scholars tested positive for major depression, while another 41% for general depression. These figures make depression a top mental health challenge among American college learners.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are another mental health challenge college students suffer. Research shows that between 11 and 17% of US female college students and 4% of their male counterparts tested positive for clinical eating disorders.
Substance Abuse
College students are also vulnerable to alcohol and recreational drugs. This bondage includes intense cravings and indulgence in substance misuse, although its victims know their behavior’s obvious consequences.
The US Addiction Center says that around one-third of college students show alcoholism symptoms. Moreover, the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s 2018 survey revealed that 15% of male college students and 9% of their female counterparts abused Adderall.
Causes of Mental Health Challenges Among Students
Factors that cause mental health problems among students have different causes. Additionally, when facing issues with mental health, college students need to consider various factors. Let’s examine the top causes of mental health problems affecting students.
- Childhood abuse.
- Trauma.
- Neglect.
- Loneliness.
- Discrimination and stigma.
- Chronic social disadvantage.
- Losing a close friend or relative.
- Severe or prolonged stress.
- Long-term physical health conditions.
- Unemployment or job loss.
- Homelessness.
- Persistent drug and alcohol abuse.
- Domestic violence or bullying in adulthood.
- Adult trauma (like those resulting from military combat).
- Physical causes (like head injuries).
How Mental Health Affects Students
Mental health affects students in many ways. But before examining some of them, answering the question, “why is mental health important for students?” is critical. Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical wellness. It lets you order your thoughts correctly and use your head to navigate life. Moreover, it’s your academic performance’s lifeline because all your thinking happens in the head. Poor mental health can negatively affect a student’s life and academics. Below are some of its consequences.
- Worse quality of life.
- Reduced academic performance.
- Poor physical health.
- Dissatisfaction with one’s college experience.
- Spoiled relationships with friends and family.
- Reduced chances of future employment.
- Lower earning potential.
- Poor concentration.
- Reduced optimism and mental ability.
- Increased chances of dropping out of college.
- Depression.
- Stress.
- Poor sleeping patterns.
Bulletproof Mental Health Tips for Students
Recovering mental health in students is imperative for improving the next generation’s quality of life, well-being, and life-study balance. This section shares practical insights for handling mental health in college students effectively.
Get Professional Help
Seeking professional help is one of the best ways to protect your mental health. You can talk to a medical expert who can give you a sympathetic ear. A regular mental health check in for students can significantly reduce vulnerability to depression, anxiety, and nervous breakdowns.
Practice Self-Care and Lead a Scheduled Life
Practicing self-care and leading a scheduled life can help you manage avoidable mental pressure. Planning your time ensures you don’t bump into stressing deadlines that negatively affect your mental health.
Balance Your Life and Studies
Balancing your life and studies is another way of getting help with your mental health. You can take mental health days for students to refresh from your rigorous academic routine.
Practice Mindfulness
Take time to practice mindfulness and meditation. These methods help you focus on where you are now, form sweet memories, and slow your thought processes. No wonder, Psychology Today says mindfulness is beneficial even during your busiest school moments.
Outsource Academic Assignments
What should you do if your pressing deadlines deny you peace of mind? You can always outsource class tasks to professional assignment writers. A weekend to relax your mind significantly refreshes you and helps you meet new academic challenges.
Parting Shot On College Students’ Mental Health
In terms of mental health, students face many challenges that negatively affect their lives. Fortunately, these difficulties can be addressed with the tips we’ve just discussed. Go ahead and apply them to enjoy a stable mental life. Don’t forget to contact us if you need help with your class assignments.
