Student Stress and Mental Health

  • Poor relationships with friends and family

Common Causes of Stress for College Students

More than 1 in 4 college students have experienced a mental illness in the past year.

  • School stress; grades, GPA, credit requirements

    

  • Financial difficulties; making ends meet to pay bills

Depression and anxiety are top contributors to poor academic performance and college dropout

Students who experience stress may also experience symptoms such as:

Insomnia

Burden of Stress

Fatigue and sleep problems

Restlessness

Headache

Upset stomach

Alcohol or substance abuse

Anxiety

Felt overwhelmed (87%)Did not feel overwhelmed (13%)

Emotional Distress in College Students

3 in 4 college students reported at least one stressful life event within the past year.

Stigma surrounding mental health may be a factor in why many students underreport their problems.

Talk with someone they trust

Stress Management

Common Management Tips for Stress

The primary reason for students not seeking help for mental health issues is the fear of social stigma

Exercise or meditate

Instead, students may:

  • Eating healthy foods

  • Relaxing

  • Getting some quiet time

  • Consistent sleep schedule

Practicing self-care:

Take breaks from stressful/triggering events

Institutions have an equal responsibility to ensure student health and wellbeing related to stress. Many universities and schools offer various services for students seeking:

  • Mental health counseling, one-on-one, group counseling, etc.

  • Workshops, activities and events within the community

  • Resource Centers, organizations, and programs


Student stress does not exist in a vacuum

 Related Topics


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