Going to college can be fun and exciting, but also daunting and overwhelming. It is not surprising that many college students—and in particular, college freshmen—deal with significant mental health maladies.
In fact, some studies indicate that more than a quarter of all college students face some kind of mental health disorder—which begs the question: What are some of the most common mental health issues on college campuses?
An overview of them might include any or all of the following:
- Depression: Untreated depression is the main factor behind college students committing suicide—and suicide is the second most common cause of death among college students. Meanwhile, depression among college students has increased by 10 percent over the past decade.
- Anxiety: Given the stressful nature of college—the deadlines, the various responsibilities, the difficult coursework—feelings of anxiety are normal, but big life changes can reveal or trigger serious mental illness.
- Eating disorders: The stressful nature of college can also trigger eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia and more.
- Substance Use: Finally, substance use—be it addiction to alcohol or to drugs—is a true campus epidemic, often stemming from high stress levels and resulting in accidents, suicides, sexual assaults and general high-risk situations.
College campuses obviously carry high risks of their own—risks that any of these mental health disorders could raise. That is what makes it imperative for college students to put their own mental well-being first. Look for creative outlets for stress. Learn strategies for managing anxiety. Students should try to develop a normal routine of sleep and make eating three healthy meals a day a priority.
Is your college student experiencing symptoms of mental health disorders? Encourage them to speak with someone about any overwhelming feelings they might experience; sometimes, a relationship with a counselor or a support group is the best way to cope with the stresses college may bring.