Anxiety a Growing Mental Health Issue for College Students
In addition to the recreational facility, the library and the mental health clinic, many college campuses also provide mental health services. Nation-wide studies are showing that more college students are availing themselves of these services than ever before, and more often than not, for anxiety concerns.
At one time depression was the leading mental health issue affecting students at college, and it remains a growing problem. These days, though, anxiety earns the top spot. Campus mental health clinic surveys show that over 50 percent of student visits are anxiety-related. Furthermore, the American College Health Association reports that one of every six students has either received an anxiety diagnosis or been treated for anxiety within the past year.
Researchers and mental health professionals say they cannot directly account for the growing anxiety problem among students. Students themselves blame academic stress and pressure starting in high school. It could also be connected to chronic social media use among other prevalent trends with young adults today.
The stigma which once kept people away from treatment appears to be improving – at least on campus. Studies show that 50 percent of those who visit the college mental health clinic have prior experience with a counselor, over 30 percent have been prescribed psychiatric medicines and 25 percent have engaged in self-harm. More students are coming in and most college clinics don’t have adequate staff to meet the need.
Experts say that college-age anxiety is normal. It is part of the process of learning to become self-reliant, responsible and self-confident. One counselor estimated that 80 percent of students are helped with a short-term intervention. If you are a college student and the pressure feels like it’s building, you can find help meeting with a mental health professional. Family Guidance Center can help you address anxiety, depression or any other mental health concern. You’re not alone.
