A 2021 Healthy Minds study, based on responses from 96,000 college students, showed that 44% had experienced some level of depression.1 In 2023, nearly 30% of students surveyed by Healthy Minds reported having engaged in non-suicidal self-injury.2 These numbers, among others, seem to reflect a rising mental health crisis in colleges across the US.
College is a time when young adults should be having the time of their lives—getting to know who they are outside of their family, achieving academic success, or falling in love—life at this age is full of possibility. However, for many college students, it’s a time of great mental load and societal pressures. At True Life, we know that finding effective support during this pivotal time is vital, and we can be that support. True Life is a mental health treatment center in CA, that will consider your whole being as we work toward healing. Call 866.730.3378 today. We can help.
Understanding College Student Mental Health
The transition to college has always come with a certain amount of stress. Students are learning to juggle a variety of responsibilities on their own, adjusting to new peer groups, as well as increased expectations from their instructors. And many young people are doing all of this while also balancing a job to help pay for their education. All in all, it’s a transition that has always been jarring, but the number of students reporting overwhelming anxiety has increased. Some of the contributing factors include:
- Academic pressures
- Social stress
- Financial strain
- Transition to independence
The combination of these challenges often leaves college student’s mental health vulnerable to feelings of isolation, burnout, and emotional distress.
The College Mental Health Crisis
Though many of these stressors have always been present, there are some unique changes to the college landscape that have added to what’s historically been true. College campus mental health is now impacted most acutely by:
Academic Pressures
Academic expectations have always been a part of college life, but they’ve intensified in recent years due to increasingly competitive job markets and the need for applicants to have higher qualifications. Additionally, the rapid shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic also added a new layer of challenge, with many students struggling to adapt to remote education.
Social Stress
Though social pressure has no doubt been a part of every student’s experience, social media stress hasn’t always been a factor. The influence that social media has continues to mount and leads people, especially young adults, to constant comparisons and unrealistic expectations for themselves in every area. Students often feel pressure to curate a “perfect” image of themselves online, while simultaneously trying to maintain in-person relationships. The pandemic also threw a wrench into traditional socialization opportunities, leaving many students feeling isolated and put in a position of having to rebuild their social circles upon returning to campus.
Financial Strain
The rising costs of tuition, housing, and other living expenses have put more students under financial pressure than ever before. Many must balance academics with part-time jobs, leaving little time for self-care or extracurricular activities. Additionally, concerns about future student loan debt and financial stability weigh heavily on students’ mental health, creating stress that previous generations of students may not have experienced to the same extent.
Transition to Independence
While moving away from home has always brought a sense of accomplishment and freedom to students, it’s still difficult to move out on your own for the first time. Factors like limited life experience, reliance on technology for basic tasks, and fewer in-person interactions with people who bring comfort, can all contribute to increased feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.
Recognizing the Signs of Mental Health Struggles
If you or a college-aged loved one think you might be in need of mental health support, some common indicators include:
- Persistent sadness or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating or declining academic performance
- Withdrawal from social activities and isolation
- Changes in sleep patterns or eating habits
Recognizing these signs early can make a significant difference in addressing a student’s mental health needs effectively. If you’re struggling, make use of your colleges’ on-campus counseling services as soon as possible. If you’re in the San Diego area, call True Life 866.730.3378 and we can help.
Ways to Help Manage Your Mental Health
College is full of pressure. There’s no denying that. But there are things you can do proactively help yourself feel better. Here are some actionable steps:
- Make use on-campus resources – Take advantage of counseling and support groups.
- Build a support network – Surround yourself with understanding friends, family, and mentors.
- Practice self-care – Engage in activities like regular exercise, prayer, mindfulness, and eat nourishing foods.
- Seek external support – Consider outpatient care from trusted providers like True Life Center.
Remember that you’re not powerless when it comes to your mental health. Just like taking care of our physical bodies is important, so is taking care of our minds. Prioritize rest and things that feel life-giving to you.
College Campus Mental Health Is Possible
Many colleges and universities offer on-campus counseling services, including therapy sessions and peer support groups, however these services are often overwhelmed by high demand. Students often face long wait times or limited access to services, making it difficult to receive consistent care.
This is where outside support, such as True Life Center’s integrative mental health programs, becomes essential. Don’t wait for things to get worse, call us today at 866.730.3378 for more information about our programs:
- Individualized programs
- Holistic therapies
- Flexible scheduling
True Life Center is dedicated to helping improve mental health on local college campuses. We not only manage our patient’s symptoms but also help equip them with the tools necessary for long-term mental health and wellness.
Call True Life Center Today for Mental Health Support for Students
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t need to wait until you’re at your breaking point in order to get help. Recognize that the stage of life you find yourself in is indeed challenging, and that support is available to you. Let True Life help you navigate this pivotal stage of life, so that you don’t miss out on the joy that’s possible in college.
For more information about True Life Center and how we can support you, reach out via our online form or call 866.730.3378.
We’re with you all the way.
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