Mental Health Challenges in College Students & How to Find Support

The cost of living is rising, meaning many college students face more debt after graduation and have to navigate getting employment during and after college. If you're facing financial difficulties, get in touch with your financial aid office, and see if there are any grants, scholarships, or support you can get from Federal Work Study.

For many, going to college means leaving behind those you love the most, sometimes moving to a new state. It could also mean you've left behind home comforts and have to navigate freedom and autonomy differently. College is a time to discover who you are and what you want, but this can leave many overwhelmed and homesick.

For those struggling with mental health, it can be difficult to keep up with the constant coming and goings of college life. In addition to academic pressures, college life introduces students to social pressures, like the unobtainable pressure of making millions of friends or ongoing events to attend. It can also make those with social anxiety question themselves leading to depression, anxiety, and loneliness.

Performance anxiety is a huge pressure, regardless of how you deal with things. Performance anxiety in college can be exacerbated by social pressures, academic stress, financial stress, family expectations, and limiting self-belief. For those struggling with mental health, this can become debilitating, leading to self-isolation, unhealthy procrastination, overworking, and many other things. If you're struggling with performance anxiety or anxiety in general, talk to your college, and see if they partner with any local mental health providers or if they can support you on campus.

This might be the first time you have lived or cohabitated with strangers, which can increase the turmoil of college challenges, leading you to ask questions like, what if they don't like me? What if I don't like them? What if we don't get on? How do I live with someone I don't like? In these moments, it's very important to remember that firstly, you're not going to be liked by everyone; similarly, you're not going to like everyone. Secondly, your room should be a safe and comforting space to return to, so setting boundaries and having open communication with someone, regardless of whether you get on or not, is key.

College isn't a walk in the park; it's going to get tough, and at times you might feel like, is it all worth it? Depending on your course load, you might have a few things going on at a time. Make use of your downtime and focus on things you enjoy. That way, when you return to whatever you have to do, you're refreshed and invigorated. Remember, college can teach you valuable life skills, but it's important to keep a schedule that works for you, so you don't get burned out.

All relationships take work, whether romantic, a friendship, platonic, casual, or a relationship with yourself. When students face the stresses of college life, the pressure to make them work can become even greater. For students struggling with relationships, talking to a friend, getting help from family members, or doing some inner work could help. If that doesn't work for you, journalling, meditating or taking some time to process might.

While at college, a few things might happen, such as losing a family member, someone important to you, or even family dynamics you have to deal with, all while trying to get on with your studies. There's also the added pressure of independence and identity; yes, college is a time for self-discovery, but this can lead many to further struggle with their mental health.

Social media perfection is unattainable, but added to that comes body image, societal pressures to look a certain way, and "beautiful people" at the touch of a button. For those who struggle with eating disorders, the freedom of college can also put added pressure, as can figuring out your gender identity, navigating social constructs, and experiencing body dysmorphia. Not to say that everyone student will feel this way, but getting help discovering yourself is important. Learn more about body neutrality with The Body Grievers Podcast.

Crisis Text Line is free 24/7 support when you need it most. You can text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the U.S., and a live trained-Crisis Counselor will respond from their secure online platform. It works on Whatsapp, too; just head to their site.

The NAMI Helpline is available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. ET. You can call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text Helpline to 62640. They also have local NAMI affiliates, NAMI support groups, and NAMI programs. It isn't a crisis line or suicide prevention line.

If you want to find out what mental health support there might be in your local area or state, the APTC has a comprehensive list that will take you to each website. Simply search by the college or scroll down for your chosen state.

The Center is a New York-based service that fosters a welcoming environment. They offer the LGBTQ+ communities of NYC support services, advocacy, and support programs for work, life, and mental health struggles. The Center is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

If you'd prefer to stay anonymous and protect your privacy, you can access many support services off-campus.

Togetherall is a free safe online community to share what's happening and get support when you need it.

The ADAA, English language peer-to-peer online anxiety and depression group, Spanish online support group, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) group are free and supportive places for individuals to share information and connect with others going through the same challenges.

Another great resource where you can connect with others is Hey Peers. Interact with coaches and trained peer support specialists on any device, anytime.

Steven Bartlett, a former CEO of a multimillion-pound industry-leading marketing company, created "The Diary Of A CEO" to unfilter what we think is success and to give listeners knowledge to create the life they want. He interviews many industry professionals and individuals who talk about mental health and what it means to live in today's world. You can catch his podcast on Apple, Spotify, and Youtube.

Moodfit is a free downloadable app on Apple and Google Play. The basic subscription includes free mood tracking, gratitude journaling, and setting goals. For more features, they offer a few monthly or yearly subscriptions for a minimum of $19.99 for 6 months. They also offer a gift subscription.

7Cups was created to support individuals struggling with their mental health alone. Thanks to their volunteers, they offer a free anonymous online chat service and affordable counseling for anyone over 18+. You can also find support in their community chat rooms and forums.

CWC Talks is the college mental health podcast created by the Counseling and Wellness Center at the University of Florida. The podcast is devoted to honest conversations about mental health and wellness for college and beyond. They talk about exploring identity, coping with stress, finding joy, and more. It is available for anyone, regardless of whether you go to the UF.

The free app from MindShift CBT  is designed for young people. It uses proven CBT-based tools to reorientate thinking, a chill zone where you can listen to guided meditations, goal setting, and coping cards. There is also a community forum for users over 18+.

The NBC Parent Toolkit Guides are a great resource to have on hand as soon as your child starts Pre-K up to flying the nest in college. They've got articles on things mental health counselors wish parents understood, so you can better understand your young adult, college terminology guides, and how to talk to college kids about suicide when you want to help your child talk about their feelings in a supportive place. Remember, it's not about fixing; it's about listening.

Financial worries are at the top of the list regarding college mental health challenges, not just for students but for parents too. Firstly, having an open, honest conversation about finances is a great place to start. Exploring options together of what financial aid might be available is another. The Federal Student Aid has many articles, support chats, helpful tips, and how-to fill out the FAFSA form guides to support you along this journey.

Big Future helps parents and students plan for college and was created by College Board, a not-for-profit organization that connects students to colleges and opportunities. Their mission is to prepare students successfully in transitioning from high school to college. They've got guides on paying for college, choosing the right college, applications, and what to do if you're waitlisted.