Worrying Reality of Students’ Mental Health: Common Psychological Problems

Attending college is an exciting yet challenging phase of life that can significantly impact students’ mental health. The transition to higher education often brings newfound responsibilities, academic pressures, and social adjustments, leaving many students grappling with psychological problems. Mental health issues among college students have become increasingly prevalent, affecting their overall well-being and academic performance.

This article delves into the alarming rise of mental health concerns among students, exploring common psychological problems they face, their effects on academic success, and the importance of early intervention and support services. By understanding the unique challenges students encounter and the need for tailored mental health resources, we can better equip educational institutions to foster a supportive and inclusive environment that prioritizes students’ mental well-being.

Prevalence of Mental Health Issues Among College Students

The prevalence of mental health issues among college students has been a growing concern in recent years. Studies and surveys have revealed alarming statistics that highlight the magnitude of this problem across campuses worldwide.

Staggering Numbers

According to the Healthy Minds survey, more than 60 percent of college students meet the criteria for at least one mental health problem—a nearly 50 percent increase since 2013. The survey, which involved over 90,000 students across 133 U.S. campuses, found that 44 percent of students reported symptoms of depression, 37 percent experienced anxiety, and 15 percent considered suicide—the highest rate in the survey’s 15-year history.

Widespread Impact

This mental health crisis affects students of all races and backgrounds. Approximately two-thirds of college students, regardless of their race (White, Black, Hispanic, or Asian), have reported feeling “very sad,” according to a 2019 study. Similarly, about a third of college students from various racial and ethnic backgrounds have experienced feelings of depression so severe that they couldn’t function.

Common Mental Health Conditions

In 2023, a staggering 76% of college students experienced moderate to serious psychological distress. The most prevalent conditions include anxiety (36%) and depression (28%). However, students also grapple with trauma, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorders, and substance use disorders.

Contributing Factors

Several factors contribute to the high prevalence of mental health issues among college students:

1. Academic challenges: More than 9 in 10 students (99%) who face academic challenges say they affect their mental health.
2. Social isolation: In 2022, 25% of students reported feeling isolated from others.
3. Discrimination and harassment: College students are affected by stressors like microaggressions (18%), sexual harassment (12%), and discrimination (12%).
4. Specific populations: Trans/gender-nonconforming and LGBTQ+ students, as well as college athletes, particularly in women’s sports, report higher levels of mental health challenges compared to their peers.

These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support systems and resources to address the mental health needs of college students across various demographics and backgrounds.

Psychological Problems and Their Association with Mental Disorders

Mental health problems are highly prevalent among college students and are often associated with various mental disorders. Here are some common psychological problems and their connections to mental health conditions:

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric problems among college students, affecting approximately 11.9% of the student population. These include:

• Social Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by an intense fear of social situations, often beginning in early adolescence (median age of onset between 7-14 years).
• Panic Disorder: Marked by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, along with persistent concerns about future attacks or their consequences.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, often accompanied by physical symptoms like restlessness or irritability.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Resulting from exposure to a traumatic event, PTSD can cause intrusive thoughts, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, and heightened reactivity.

Depression

Another common mental health issue among college students is depression, with a prevalence rate of 7-9%. Over half of all depression cases have their first onset during childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood. Symptoms may include persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest, and changes in sleep or appetite patterns.

Suicidal Ideation

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young adults and a significant concern for college students. A large survey found that 6.7% of students reported suicidal ideation, 1.6% had a suicide plan, and 0.5% attempted suicide in the past year.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders like bulimia, anorexia, and binge eating often begin during adolescence and increase in risk during early adulthood. A survey of 2,822 college students revealed that 9.5% screened positive for an eating disorder, with a higher proportion among females (13.5%) compared to males (3.6%).

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD, which typically begins in childhood, persists into adulthood in approximately half of the cases. Between 2-8% of college students suffer from ADHD, and about one-fourth of students receiving disability services have this disorder.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)

ASDs are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by challenges in socialization, communication, and behavior. While often considered disabling, some individuals with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s disorder are able to attend college.

Substance Use Disorders

The use of alcohol and illicit drugs peaks during young adulthood, making substance use disorders highly prevalent among college students. Approximately one in five students meets the criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the previous year, and binge drinking is a common hazardous behavior.

Non-Medical Use of Prescription Medications

In addition to substance use and alcohol misuse, college students often engage in the non-medical use or misuse of prescription medications, either taking them without a prescription or exceeding the recommended dosage.

Early identification and treatment of these psychological problems and substance use disorders can significantly impact their trajectory and long-term consequences. Addressing low treatment-seeking rates among college students through outreach strategies and technology-based interventions is crucial for promoting mental well-being on campuses.

Effects of Psychological Problems on Academic Performance

Psychological problems can have a profound impact on students’ academic performance, hindering their ability to concentrate, retain information, and meet academic demands. The following points highlight the detrimental effects of mental health issues on students’ educational journey:

Impaired Concentration and Cognitive Functioning

Mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can significantly impair a student’s ability to concentrate and focus on academic tasks. These conditions can affect cognitive functioning, making it challenging to process and retain information effectively, ultimately leading to poor academic performance.

Decreased Motivation and Engagement

Psychological distress can diminish students’ motivation and engagement with their studies. Conditions such as depression can lead to feelings of hopelessness, lethargy, and a lack of interest in academic pursuits, resulting in decreased class attendance, incomplete assignments, and poor grades.

Disrupted Sleep Patterns

Many mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress, can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep difficulties or insomnia. Inadequate sleep can negatively impact cognitive functioning, memory retention, and overall academic performance.

Absenteeism and Dropout Rates

Students struggling with severe mental health problems may experience increased absenteeism from classes or even drop out of school altogether. This can significantly hinder their academic progress and potentially derail their educational goals.

Lower Academic Self-Efficacy

Research has shown that students reporting severe mental distress are four times more likely to report low academic self-efficacy compared to those with few or moderate symptoms. Low academic self-efficacy can undermine students’ confidence in their abilities, leading to decreased motivation and poorer academic outcomes.

Delayed Study Progress

Mental health problems can also contribute to delayed study progress. Students experiencing severe psychological symptoms are twice as likely to report delays in their academic progress compared to those with mild or moderate symptoms.

Long-Term Consequences

The impact of psychological problems on academic performance can have long-lasting consequences. Failure to address mental health issues during the college years may lead to incomplete degrees, reduced job prospects, and potential financial burdens associated with prolonged enrollment or dropout.

It is crucial for educational institutions to recognize the significant impact of mental health on academic performance and implement comprehensive support systems to help students overcome these challenges.

Early intervention, counseling services, and accommodations can play a vital role in mitigating the negative effects of psychological problems and fostering a supportive learning environment for all students.

Suggestion for read: Mental Health for Teens

Identifying and Addressing Psychological Problems Early

Identifying and addressing psychological problems early is crucial for promoting the mental well-being of college students and mitigating the potential negative impacts on their academic performance and overall development. Here are some key strategies and considerations:

Early Identification Strategies

1. Mental Health Screenings: School-based mental health specialists administer, or train school staff to administer, mental health screening tools to identify students at risk for psychological issues. These screenings can help detect early warning signs and facilitate timely interventions.
2. Teacher Training: Many educational institutions have positioned teachers as the first line of defense by providing them with training to recognize mental health warning signs and identify at-risk students. Teachers can then refer these students for further evaluation and support services.
3. Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about mental health issues through campus-wide campaigns, workshops, and educational materials can encourage students to self-identify and seek help when needed. These initiatives can also help destigmatize mental health concerns and promote a supportive campus culture.
4. Peer Support Programs: Peer-to-peer support programs, where trained students provide guidance and support to their fellow classmates, can create a safe and inclusive environment for students to share their concerns and seek help without fear of judgment.

Early Intervention Strategies

1. Counseling Services: Providing accessible and confidential counseling services on campus is crucial for addressing psychological problems early. These services should be staffed by licensed mental health professionals, such as psychologists, counselors, and social workers, who can provide individual and group therapy, as well as referrals to specialized care when needed.
2. Academic Support: Acknowledging the negative impact of psychological problems on academic achievement, some educational institutions have invested in academic support staff, including guidance counselors, academic interventionists, special educators, and paraprofessionals. These professionals can help students develop effective study strategies, time management skills, and coping mechanisms to mitigate the effects of mental health challenges on their academic performance.
3. Classroom Interventions: In between counseling sessions, school-based mental health specialists at many institutions visit classrooms to facilitate lessons related to mental health topics. These interventions can help students develop coping strategies, stress management techniques, and resilience skills, while also promoting a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
4. Collaboration with External Providers: For students requiring more intensive or specialized care, educational institutions can establish partnerships with external mental health providers, such as community-based organizations, hospitals, and private practitioners. This collaboration ensures a seamless transition and continuity of care for students in need of long-term or specialized treatment.
5. Technology-Based Interventions: To reach a broader student population and provide accessible support, some organizations have implemented technology-based interventions, such as hotlines, online pamphlets, and web-based resources. These platforms offer students the opportunity to access mental health coping skills and resources remotely, promoting convenience and anonymity.

By prioritizing early identification and intervention strategies, educational institutions can create a supportive environment that promotes student mental well-being, fosters academic success, and equips students with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of college life successfully.

Treatment Considerations for College Students

Providing effective mental health treatment to college students requires a multifaceted approach that addresses their unique needs and challenges. Here are some crucial treatment considerations for supporting students’ mental well-being:

Involving Parents in Treatment

While respecting students’ privacy and autonomy, involving parents or guardians in the treatment process can be beneficial. Educational institutions can take the following steps:

1. Inform Parents and Guardians: Colleges and universities can educate parents and guardians about the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, share information on available on-campus resources, and encourage active listening and advocacy.
2. Establish Communication Channels: Maintaining open communication channels with parents and guardians can facilitate collaboration and support during the student’s mental health journey. This could include scheduled video calls, agreed-upon discussion topics, or regular updates on the student’s progress.
3. Seek Consent for Information Sharing: With the student’s consent, institutions can grant parents or guardians access to relevant information, such as academic performance or treatment plans, under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This transparency can foster a supportive environment and enable early intervention when needed.

Accommodating Work and Family Commitments

Many college students juggle academic responsibilities with part-time jobs or family obligations. Treatment plans should accommodate these commitments by:

1. Offering Flexible Scheduling: Providing evening or weekend appointment options can make it easier for students to attend therapy sessions without conflicting with work or family commitments.
2. Exploring Telemental Health Services: Telehealth services can offer greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to receive counseling from the comfort of their homes or during breaks from campus.
3. Facilitating Academic Accommodations: Collaborating with academic support staff and disability services can help students access accommodations, such as extended deadlines or tutoring, to alleviate the impact of mental health challenges on their academic performance.

Ensuring Continuity of Care During Breaks

Maintaining continuity of care during school breaks is crucial for students receiving mental health treatment. Institutions can consider the following strategies:

1. Extending Telemental Health Hours: Rather than pausing care during breaks, colleges and universities can extend telemental health services throughout the summer or other extended periods away from campus. This allows students to maintain ongoing sessions with their preferred providers.
2. Facilitating Transitions: If students leave the state or region during breaks, institutions can provide alternative options, such as referrals to local community health centers or therapists in their area, to ensure uninterrupted care.
3. Preparing Students for Transitions: Before breaks, counseling centers can prepare students for the transition by providing reminders about available services, programs, and tools, as well as tips for protecting their mental health throughout the year.

By implementing these treatment considerations, educational institutions can create a supportive environment that prioritizes students’ mental well-being, fosters academic success, and equips them with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of college life successfully.

Outreach Strategies and Technology-Based Interventions

Educational institutions are increasingly recognizing the potential of technology-based interventions and outreach strategies to address the growing mental health concerns among college students. These innovative approaches aim to improve accessibility, reduce stigma, and provide tailored support to students in need.

Telemental Health Services

Telemental health (TMH) refers to online mental health services provided to students remotely. TMH can offer counseling sessions at students’ convenience, potentially increasing access to care for those reluctant to seek face-to-face counseling. However, implementing TMH requires careful planning and adherence to standards and best practices to ensure quality of care and mitigate potential risks, such as malpractice claims or equity concerns related to reliable broadband access for off-campus students.

Online Interventions and Electronic Media

Electronic media and online interventions have shown promise in screening for mental health issues, increasing mental health literacy, and encouraging at-risk students to seek support and treatment. These interventions can be easily accessed, cost-effective for large student populations, and perceived as less stigmatizing than traditional approaches.

Online interventions cover a spectrum of services, from prevention to treatment, including:

1. Web-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) programs
2. Skills training modules
3. Mindfulness exercises
4. Stress management resources

Systematic reviews have demonstrated the effectiveness of web-based and computer-delivered interventions in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and eating disorders among college students.

Targeted Recruitment and Support

Research suggests that the effectiveness of online interventions can be influenced by factors such as recruitment strategies and the availability of support. For instance, web-based recruitment has been associated with better outcomes compared to recruiting participants from study subject pools. Additionally, while some studies indicate that providing support during interventions yields greater effects, others suggest no significant impact of support on intervention effectiveness.

Intervention Adherence and Personalization

Intervention adherence, or the extent to which participants complete the program, has been identified as a moderating factor for universal interventions. Higher intervention completion rates have been linked to better outcomes. Personalization and tailoring interventions to individual needs and preferences may further enhance their effectiveness and engagement.

Collaboration and Integration

Successful implementation of technology-based interventions and outreach strategies requires collaboration among various campus stakeholders, including mental health professionals, academic support staff, and student organizations. Integrating these approaches into existing campus resources and services can create a comprehensive and coordinated system of support for students’ mental well-being.

While technology-based interventions and outreach strategies show promise in addressing the mental health needs of college students, ongoing research and evaluation are necessary to refine their implementation, ensure equitable access, and optimize their effectiveness in promoting student well-being and academic success.

Collaboration Between Campus Health Services and Mental Health Providers

Effective collaboration between campus health services and external mental health providers is crucial for addressing the growing mental health demands of college students. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between on-campus resources and specialized care, ensuring a comprehensive and seamless support system for students’ well-being.

Establishing Partnerships and Pathways

Universities have recognized the strategic importance of developing partnerships and pathways with mental health services, such as the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. These collaborations enable universities to address emerging student needs more effectively. Key aspects of these partnerships include:

1. Effective Communication: Open and consistent communication between dedicated staff from both institutions fosters a shared understanding and trust, facilitating seamless coordination of care.
2. Information Sharing: Overcoming barriers to information sharing and addressing incompatible data infrastructures is essential for ensuring continuity of care and avoiding duplication of services.
3. Regular Case Conferences: Joint case conferences enable collaborative risk assessment, incident learning, and a better understanding of student needs, helping university services become more attuned to mental health challenges.

Dedicated Liaison and Coordination

Some universities have established dedicated student mental health liaisons within the NHS or local healthcare providers. These liaisons serve as a central point of contact, supporting risk management and facilitating coordination between university and external services. Additionally, partnerships with local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) have brought together commissioners and service leads, recognizing students as a distinct population with unique mental health needs.

Streamlining Referrals and Assessments

Effective partnerships can streamline the referral process and provide timely assessments for students in need. For example, some universities have established direct referral pathways with local general practitioner (GP) services, enabling same-day mental health assessments for students. This collaborative approach ensures that students receive prompt attention and appropriate care.

Continuity of Care and Avoiding Duplication

By actively collaborating with NHS mental health services, universities can ensure continuity of care for students and avoid duplication of service provision. This includes offering help directly or facilitating access to external resources when necessary. Effective communication during transitions, such as when students are discharged from NHS services or local hospitals, is crucial to maintaining uninterrupted support.

Overcoming Barriers and Implementing Strategies

While these partnerships hold immense potential, they also face challenges that must be addressed. Barriers may include restrictions on information sharing, incompatible data infrastructures, and a lack of consistent relationships between dedicated staff. To overcome these obstacles, universities and mental health providers can implement strategies such as:

1. Establishing dedicated communication channels and regular meetings between key personnel.
2. Investing in compatible data systems and streamlining information-sharing protocols.
3. Fostering long-term relationships between dedicated staff members from both institutions.

By strengthening partnerships between universities and mental health providers, educational institutions can better meet the increasing demands for student mental health support. Addressing barriers, implementing effective strategies, and fostering collaborative relationships can enhance the quality and continuity of services provided to students, ultimately promoting their overall well-being and academic success.

Conclusion

The alarming prevalence of mental health issues among college students is a concerning reality that demands immediate attention and action. From anxiety and depression to eating disorders and substance abuse, the psychological problems faced by students can have severe consequences on their academic performance, personal well-being, and overall development. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes early identification, tailored interventions, and a supportive, inclusive campus environment.

Educational institutions play a pivotal role in fostering student mental well-being by implementing comprehensive support systems, promoting mental health awareness, and collaborating with external mental health providers. At Inquire Talk, we understand the significance of mental health and well-being in relationships. Our online counseling services are designed to support individuals and couples in managing stress, promoting emotional well-being, and fostering better relationships. By leveraging technology-based interventions, outreach strategies, and effective partnerships, colleges and universities can ensure that students receive the support they need to navigate the challenges of academic life successfully.

FAQs

1. What are the prevalent mental health issues among students?The most frequently encountered mental health issues in students include anxiety, mood disorders, attention disorders, and behavioral disorders. Additionally, suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 24 years.
2. Can you list some types of mental disorders?Mental disorders can be broadly categorized into several types, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Schizophrenia, Eating Disorders, Disruptive Behaviour and Dissocial Disorders, and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. These categories encompass a wide range of specific conditions, each with its own set of challenges and symptoms.
3. What psychological approaches are used to manage mental health conditions?There are five primary psychological approaches to managing mental health conditions: biopsychosocial, psychoanalytic, behavioral, humanistic, and cognitive approaches. The two main types of treatment for these disorders are psychotherapy, which addresses psychological aspects, and biomedical treatment, which involves biological methods.
4. What are the three most common psychological disorders?The three most common psychological disorders in America are anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder. Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only about 37 percent of those affected receive treatment. Major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder are also significant mental health challenges that affect many individuals.

Here are few certified therapists who you can get in touch and book a therapy session with:

Laura Dee

Enfys Jones

Dr Simon Cassar