World Mental Health Day is the right time to ponder over how our mental health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Mental Health encompasses our emotional state, thought process, and behaviour, and should not be taken lightly. It’s concerning that mental health often goes neglected, causing adverse effects on health, social relationships, economics, and human rights.

Mental Health Problems in College Students Are On the Rise!

As the critical transition phase from childhood to adulthood, college students face numerous challenges that can take a toll on their mental well-being. With significant changes happening in their brains, bodies, and social lives, this vulnerable population is susceptible to a range of psychiatric conditions.

It’s essential to prioritize mental health support for college students, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to thrive during this important developmental stage.

Mental health problems in college students might stem from a variety of causes, such as:

• Addiction to the Internet: You can’t deny it – the Internet has become a vital part of our daily routine. Unfortunately, college students are particularly at risk of falling into the trap of excessive Internet usage. 

The alarming numbers don’t lie: a recent study by Jaison Joseph and colleagues revealed that up to 40% of college students in India could be struggling with Internet Addiction. It’s high time we address this serious issue before it spirals out of control.

• Attachment patterns with parents: Starting university is a major life milestone for young adults, who must navigate the challenges of a new environment and adjust to living away from home. This can be especially overwhelming for first-year undergraduates. 

However, research suggests that students who rely more on peer support than parental support have an easier time transitioning to university life. By prioritizing connections with fellow students, first-year students can set themselves up for a successful and fulfilling university experience.

• Bodily changes: Puberty brings about significant physical changes in adolescents, triggering a range of emotional and social changes. The transition involves a direct impact on both the body and brain, altering needs and interests which is reflected in the shifting mood. 

In addition, teenagers undergo a wide range of new social experiences, including sexual arousal and being treated differently by others. These changes often cause irritability and mood swings due to rapidly changing hormonal levels. 

• Chronic illness in the family: Are you a student with a chronically ill family member? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure, stress, and depression that come with being a caregiver? 

We understand that your situation can be tough, and it often leads to students delaying or dropping out of school. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can still balance your caregiving responsibilities and education with the right support and resources.

• Death of a loved one: The loss of a loved one can have a profound impact on a person, leading to depression, anxiety, substance use, and other psychiatric disorders. This experience can be particularly challenging for college students, who are at a heightened risk for prolonged periods of grief.

• Demands and frustrations experienced in schools and colleges: Are you drowning in school-related stress? Beware, because research indicates that this may actually work against you. Feeling overwhelmed reduces your motivation to do the work, sabotages your academic achievement, and even increases your chances of dropping out. 

Not to mention the negative health effects such as depression, poor sleep, substance abuse and anxiety. Prioritize your mental and academic well-being by finding ways to manage your stress!

• Financial problems: Are you a college student experiencing financial stress? You’re not alone. Unfortunately, the implications of this stress reach far beyond your bank account.

Sleep disturbances and mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression, can drastically impact your personal life and academic performance. 

• Heredity: Do mental health issues seem to be a prevalent concern in your family? Research indicates that if a family member has a specific mental disorder, the likelihood of others being affected increases. However, not everyone is affected equally. 

Symptoms can range in severity from person to person, with some experiencing mild effects while others suffer more severely. It’s essential to understand that mental disorders can run in families, but they don’t have to be present the same way across everyone.

• Living in an unsafe or toxic environment: Living in poverty or dangerous environments can have a devastating impact on mental health. Both adults and children are susceptible to social stress, stigma, and trauma that can result in employment problems and broken relationships. Sadly, this creates a vicious cycle that is hard for many to break free from. 
• Low self-esteem: Your self-esteem and perceived competence are essential for you to take risks in your learning and overcome challenges. Don’t let low self-esteem or a lack of confidence hold you back. Trust in yourself and take the necessary steps to achieve academic growth. Failure is an opportunity to learn and bounce back stronger than ever. 
• Moving or changing schools: It’s no secret that moving schools can have long-lasting impacts on a child’s life. Studies reveal that children who frequently change schools struggle to form meaningful relationships later in life, and face lower levels of satisfaction, and overall well-being. 

The transition from high school to college is also notoriously tough to navigate. With endless choices and time management stress, it’s no wonder students face staggering levels of academic and emotional pressure. 

And for many, the biggest hurdle is making friends. It’s hard to trust new people, and opening up can lead to a deep hurt. It’s critical not to let these challenges keep you from reaching your potential. Make the most of your time in school and prioritize your well-being.

• Relationship issues: Don’t let a bad relationship ruin your mental health and academic success. Research proves that negative relationships and break-ups can lead to poor mental health outcomes, and even cause university dropouts and economic burdens. 
• Separation or divorce of parents: Divorce can have a significant impact on your child’s well-being. Studies show that children of divorced or separated parents are at a higher risk of experiencing academic struggles, disruptive behaviour, and depression. Young adults need support during this difficult time and ensure they get the help they need to thrive.

and more.

In adolescence, some of the commonly reported conditions are:

• Anxiety disorders: According to a recent survey, an alarming 44% of students reported experiencing depression, while 37% experienced anxiety disorders. Even more concerning, a staggering 15% reported seriously considering suicide in the past year. 

These numbers are the highest ever recorded in the 15-year history of the survey and should serve as a wake-up call to all of us about the urgent need to address this critical issue.

• Eating disorders (like anorexia and bulimia): Eating disorders run rampant on college campuses. The top three culprits? Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa reigns supreme, with its dangerous obsession with weight and minimal food intake. It’s time to address this critical issue and encourage a healthier campus environment. 
• Major depressive disorders: Discovering students at risk of depression before it spirals out of control can be a game-changer. By implementing screening at college entrances, we can identify those who need targeted preventive interventions and improve their overall well-being. The causes of depression in college students, like lack of sleep, poor eating habits, and academic stress, are all too common. But with early intervention, we can help more students stay in college and thrive.  

• Substance use: Are you aware that substance abuse can put young people at a greater risk of mental health issues? This includes depression, personality disorders, and even suicidal thoughts and actions. 

Shockingly, a recent study found that over half of male college students in North India engage in substance use – with law and art students at the highest risk. 

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance, followed by smoking, tobacco chewing, and cannabis use. It’s time to take action and address this dangerous trend before it’s too late.

and more.

Shockingly, suicide is the third most common cause of death among young adults in India. It’s high time we break the silence around this issue and start advocating for better mental health resources and education. The problem lies in undiagnosed mental illnesses and the shame associated with seeking help.  

Did you know that 12-13% of students in India are facing psychological, emotional, and behavioural issues? These staggering numbers cannot be ignored any longer. Let’s come together on this World Mental Health Day to delve deeper into this critical issue and take action to support those in need. 

World Mental Health Day 2023

The theme of World Mental Health Day 2023 is ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World!’.

Imagine how much happier and healthier the world would be if we could all take better care of our mental health. That’s exactly what World Mental Health Day is all about – creating awareness and understanding about the role that mental illnesses play in our lives. 

World Mental Health Day was celebrated on October 10 every year. Launched in 1992 by the World Federation of Mental Health, the day raises awareness about the real and pressing need to recognize mental health issues as legitimate challenges that impact individuals worldwide. 

By shining a light on this issue, we can start to break down the stigma and provide resources and support for the over one billion people around the globe who are struggling with mental health issues. It’s time to take this seriously and prioritize our mental well-being for a better future.

At SMS Varanasi, we take the mental problems of college students, enrolled in various UG and PG programs we offer, very seriously. We offer psychological tests, counselling, and even therapy. Our students are encouraged to talk openly about their mental health issues and seek help when needed.

At our institution, we firmly believe that fostering good mental health is critical to the success of our students. Our top priority is to establish a welcoming and secure setting where students feel comfortable opening up about any personal, academic or social difficulties they might be facing. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support, encouragement, and guidance to help our students achieve their goals and thrive in every aspect of life.