Living independently on campus, taking interesting classes and staying up with new friends — just don’t be too late, because that 8 a.m. class will start before you know it. College is a time for young adults to explore newfound freedoms and pursue their passions in the classroom. But change can be taxing, and college students’ mental health is especially vulnerable as they transition into this new phase of life.
A 2022 study found that over 60% of college students fit the criteria for at least one mental illness. With so much at stake, it’s critical they receive the mental health care they need to ensure they succeed in the classroom and well into their future. Here’s what to know about what college students can face in their day to day and how they can access support.
Understanding the Impact of Academic Pressure, Transitions and Social Dynamics
There are numerous ways college and the transition to adulthood can impact mental health and well-being. Here are some factors to consider.
Academic Pressure
College life involves many stressors, and chief among them is grades and academic pressure. Students often feel compelled to keep high grades to secure internships and jobs, or they could fear disappointing their loved ones by not succeeding academically. Some may even have academic or sports scholarships that require them to maintain a certain GPA.
Plenty of schools offer tutoring to help students stay on top of their material. For those still having trouble, attending office hours is another way to receive support and develop positive relationships with professors. In certain cases, students may be able to request extensions on assignments or receive other accommodations if they’re struggling with their mental health. Additionally, learning good study habits and time management techniques can go a long way in helping balance academic responsibilities and mental health.
Transitioning to College
The transition to college can be especially overwhelming for freshmen and first-time students. The lack of supervision and plethora of opportunities can result in young adults falling into bad habits and destructive behaviors. Improper sleep and diet are common issues for college students that can lead to poor mental health.
Sleep is important for both academic success and overall health and well-being. Studies show that 18- to 25-year-olds generally need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Of course, the occasional all-nighter might be necessary to ace that big test, but as a rule, college students should aim to get an appropriate amount of sleep each night. Maximize sleep by going to bed every night at the same time and putting away electronics at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
Similarly, students should pay attention to their diet and health habits during college. There are plenty of foods shown to improve mental functioning:
- Complex carbohydrates such as brown rice and starchy vegetables
- Lean protein, including chicken, fish and nuts
- Fruits such as bananas, apples and berries
Social Dynamics
Brand new social dynamics come into play when young adults step onto a college campus. Students are exposed to a diverse group of peers and have many opportunities to meet new people and make new friends. Extracurricular activities like clubs and intramural sports offer great chances to build connections, stay active and explore new interests.
While young adults are undoubtedly introduced to many positive and enriching experiences during college, it’s also true that college is where many people will encounter drugs and alcohol. Substance abuse rates are significant for college students — in fact, data shows nearly 45% of college students report abusing an illicit substance. Poor mental health is strongly correlated with substance abuse, so it’s critical for students who find themselves dealing with a drug or alcohol problem to seek help immediately.
Tailoring Services to Meet College Students’ Mental Health Needs
College is an excellent time for young adults to learn about mental health and develop positive coping skills. Workshops, talks and seminars on emerging adult mental wellness can all benefit students who are interested in learning ways to prioritize their mental health in school and beyond. Additionally, offering training to school employees can help them recognize the signs that a student may be experiencing a mental health crisis.
College students often have busy schedules that can make it difficult to commit to regular, in-person counseling sessions. Virtual young adult therapy services meet students where they are and gives them access to mental health care without compromising their schedule. The use of online therapy services skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the number of people using these resources remains high. Today, many colleges and universities offer online or text-based therapy services in an effort to expand access to mental health care.
How College Students Can Utilize Campus Mental Health Resources
For those who prefer in-person support, most colleges and universities have counseling centers for students, with sessions often provided at little or no cost. University counseling programs can offer confidential support and care tailored specifically to college students’ mental health needs. Additionally, clubs and other peer support groups can be valuable outlets for students struggling with their mental health.
While on-campus resources are usually the best place to start, students may find themselves needing external support. In the United States, most dependents can stay on their parent’s or guardian’s private insurance plan until they’re 26 years old. This coverage opens up more opportunities for referrals to other providers and for continued support after students leave school.
Students who aren’t on their parent’s or guardian’s insurance can and should still seek the help they need. Some colleges have student insurance plans available for purchase, and young adults may also gain coverage through government-funded programs. No matter their insurance status, college students shouldn’t let financial concerns stand in the way of mental health care.
Supporting College Students’ Mental Health
FHE is equipped to help students protect and improve their mental health as they chase their degrees and experience all the wonderful things college has to offer. Our programs are designed to serve diverse populations of people, including young adults who may be having trouble with the transition to college. Contact FHE Health today for a care plan tailored to you and your unique needs.
