Psychologist Susan Albers, PsyD, explains why theres a mental health crisis in higher education and what to do if you or somebody you love is struggling.
Rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation on college campuses have never been higher. Meanwhile, faculty and staff are overwhelmed. The majority of college students today meet the criteria for at least one mental-health problem.
Most college students face mental health challenges tied to missed work, lower performance, and limited treatment access. Only 36% of college students with mental health needs receive treatment, while 45% of students say mental health services are not accessible on weekends or during breaks.
College students and college graduates self-report experiencing similar rates of mental or behavioral health concerns/conditions (60% vs 63%), but more than half of college graduates (52%) say their mental or behavioral health has improved since graduation.
Students often believe they are to blame for their mental health concerns, which can lead to defensiveness or shutting down. To reduce the stigma, help students understand it's not their fault, and many young adults experience depression.
Moving forward, it's essential to keep these visual contexts in mind when discussing Risk Of Mental Health In College.
The College Pressure Cooker: High Achieving Students, High Mental Health Risks. Since the pandemic, mental health has become a focal point issue, said Markie Pasternak, senior manager for higher education with the national student network Active Minds.
