Written by: Sasha Lovitz
Edited by: Jonathan Cina
Over the past few decades, depression among college students has steadily risen, causing significant concern within academic communities. According to a data report from the Healthy Minds Network, 38% of college students across the U.S. indicated symptoms of depression during the winter and spring of 2024 (Alonso, 2024). Depression is characterized by persistent sadness and disinterest in activities previously enjoyed, often accompanied by anxiety. For many young adults, college marks a dramatic shift from high school, but this transition can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, 75% of college students don’t report their struggles with depression, increasing harmful consequences such as sustenance abuse, dropping out, and in extreme cases, suicide (Bowe, 2023). To reduce these risks, supporting students and providing services for them to seek help is critical.
Several factors contribute to high rates of depressive symptoms in college students, with the most common ones being the adjustments to college life, social stressors, and financial burdens. Transitioning from high school to college often pushes students outside their comfort zones, forcing them to adapt to new environments. This shift can leave students feeling overwhelmed and homesick, as they navigate unfamiliar settings without their support systems (WebMD, 2023). Moreover, balancing relationships, and the demands of academic life with personal responsibilities, such as personal care, can be stressful. According to the Journal of American College Health, transitions coupled with long daily schedules can lead to stress, which may lead to depression (Krendl, 2021).
Social factors also play a crucial role in the development of depression. Students leave their support systems at home and face the challenge of fitting in and building new relationships. Randall Dwenger, MD, explains how the sudden change of being in person creates “whiplash,” making it hard to adjust to the usual norms. This sudden shift can be jarring as students are thrust into rapidly adjusting to social scenes and environments they are unfamiliar with. Recent studies by the American College Health Association indicate that loneliness and lack of connection with similar individuals can increase the risks of depression. In fact, Campus Safety Magazine reported in May 2024 that approximately 65% of college students felt loneliness (Rock, 2024). Conflicts with roommates, losing touch with high school friends, and the struggles of forming new friendships can also emotionally strain students, leading to further isolation (Cherry, 2023). International students face additional difficulties, with 42% reporting more severe mental health symptoms of depression and anxiety due to the cultural differences between their home countries and the individualistic culture of the U.S.
Many other students find financial factors to be the most harrowing. Low-income students, in particular, experience this stressor and struggle to secure stable housing, food, and healthcare (Cherry, 2023). In recent years, rising costs of higher education and the pressures of taking out student loans can add to long-term anxiety, increasing the chances of depression. While part-time jobs and work-study programs help offset the costs, these opportunities also add to a student's responsibility and schedule, taking time away from personal care. The Healthy Minds Network reported that 28% of students have reduced their food intake due to financial strains (Healthy Minds Network, 2023). Additionally, the stress of securing a job after graduating to repay student loans creates added stress, which can increase the risk of depression.
Depression can affect students in various ways, from their academic performance to their physical well-being. Demanding academic environments, including rigorous classes, countless exams, and quick deadlines can be overwhelming for students already struggling with depression. Because of this, students start worrying about performing better than their peers and maintaining a competitive GPA. According to the Healthy Minds Network, almost half of college students agree that their academic workload is a significant source of stress, leading to sleepless nights, concentration problems, and loss of well-being. This can lead to a cycle of poor academic performance, further reinforcing feelings of inadequacy.
Furthermore, depression in college students can cause a lack of physical well-being. Neglecting self-care routines can lead to a lack of proper hygiene, nutrition, and sleep, significantly harming healthy schedules. Lack of sleep can interrupt the utilization of life skills, including doing laundry, cooking, and personal care (Bowe, 2023). Poor eating habits can lead to weight fluctuations and a weakened immune system, making students more susceptible to illness. Other accompanying symptoms include back pain, upset stomach, reduced motor activity, and joint pain that can worsen during periods of immense stress and depression (Cherry, 2023).
To address the growing issue of college students with depression, seeking mental health professionals through a school’s counseling center is a crucial first step. Developing a proactive mental health plan can also help students manage their challenges step by step. Behavioral action, a technique that incorporates positive activities to promote a positive mood, can be beneficial even when students don’t feel particularly motivated (Cherry, 2023). For example, engaging in social events, exercising, or even doing simple daily tasks can help boost emotional well-being. Traditional treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy can also work for those who need additional help.
Universities play vital roles in promoting comprehensive mental health support services as students age. Effective programs include community-building spaces, peer support groups, and mental health training for staff. As Randall Dwenger, MD, simply states, despite the excitement of college, young adults are in vulnerable positions in which they self-discover but also experience a range of stressful experiences (Cherry, 2023). Therefore, universities must prioritize the mental well-being of their students to foster healthier, more supporting learning environments.
References:
Alonso, J. (2024, September 11). College students are less depressed, more mentally well. Inside Higher Ed. Retrieved October 18, 2024, from https://www.insidehighered.com/news/students/physical-mental-health/2024/09/11/college-students-are-less-depressed-more-mentallyBowe, K. (2023, August 22). College students and depression. Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/college-students-and-depression
Dwenger, R., & Cherry, K. (2023, September 12). Why Is Depression in College Students on the Rise? Verywell Mind. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://www.verywellmind.com/depression-in-college-students-7693236
Healthy Minds Publications. (n.d.). Healthy Minds Network. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://healthymindsnetwork.org/publications/
Heinze, J. (2023, March 9). College Students' Anxiety, Depression Higher Than Ever, but So Are Efforts to Receive Care | News. University of Michigan School of Public Health. Retrieved October 14, 2024, https://sph.umich.edu/news/2023posts/college-students-anxiety-depression-higher-than-ever-but-so-are-efforts-to-receive-care.html
Robinson, J. (2023, May 2). How Common Is Depression Among College Students? WebMD. Retrieved October 14, 2024, from https://www.webmd.com/depression/what-to-know-about-depression-in-college-students
Rock, A. (2024, May 23). 65% of College Students Are Lonely, New Report Finds. Campus Safety Magazine. Retrieved October 18, 2024, from https://www.campussafetymagazine.com/news/65-of-college-students-are-lonely-new-report-finds/135281
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