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One out of every five young people and one out of every four college students or adults suffers from some form of diagnosable mental illness.
In the 2010 National Survey of Counseling Center Directors, respondents reported that 44 percent of their clients had severe psychological problems.
According to the National Alliance of Mental Health, one third met the criteria for a mental health condition and nearly three quarters of mental health conditions emerge by the age of 24.
Amber Madden is a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate (LPCA). She has a background concentration in Addiction Studies and specializes in Eating Disorders and Obesity. She is the owner and Clinical Director of Madden Wellness Counseling, PLLC, an independent practice. Her contact information is [email protected]
Exams, papers, projects, all night study sessions and a heavy class load are all reasons many college students find this phase of their life to be overwhelming. However, many more experience this stress and have other issues which may manifest as a result. According to recent statistics collected regarding college students, one out of every five young people and one out of every four college students or adults suffers from some form of diagnosable mental illness.
Mental illness among college students has become a growing concern of recent decades. In the 2010 National Survey of Counseling Center Directors, respondents reported that 44 percent of their clients had severe psychological problems. According to the National Alliance of Mental Health, one third met the criteria for a mental health condition and nearly three quarters of mental health conditions emerge by the age of 24. At a phase in life when students are celebrating newfound independence and trying to find their place in the world, a considerable number are dealing with a far greater issue.
This guide serves as a resource for college students to assist in understanding the various mental health issues impacting the student population. The guide provides important information about each mental health issues, as well as different ways students can reach out for help both on campus and off.
Depression
Feeling “blue” or “down” from time to time is a common occurrence and accepted as a normal part of life for everyone. However, feelings associated with sadness or feeling “weighed down” might last for weeks or months on end with no relief in sight. Everyone feels sad if they have lost a loved one or failed a test, but some individuals may experience these emotions as having serious impact on their daily living. Common signs include: loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, feeling fatigued and feeling “down” for a prolonged period of time, and changes in sleep and eating patterns.
Campus Mental Health Center – Students should consider reaching out to the campus mental health or counseling center as a first stop for help with depression. Student counseling centers can offer counseling for students on various issues, including depression. These centers are equipped with counselors that are usually specifically trained to assist with problems that may be unique to student life, such as being “homesick” or having difficulties with classes. Services are typically covered by the student’s insurance of the health insurance provided through tuition.
Pet Therapy – Research has shown those people who live with a pet or communicate with a pet on a regular basis also have experienced significant mental health benefits. These individuals tend to be happier and less stressed. Pet therapy has gained most of its popularity among nursing homes and hospitals, caring for the elderly and sick. However, some colleges have also began incorporating pet therapy as part of their on campus care for students, inviting certified pets to the campus for students to play, snuggle and interact with them.
Prevention Programs – Some colleges may offer preventative programs and workshops with a focus on helping students understand mental health issues, as well as find constructive ways to cope. These programs can be effective in reducing students’ anxiety, stress and depression. Contact the campus Student Services department regarding what programs might be available.
- Depression in Students
- Why are So Many College Students Depressed?
- Symptoms of Depression
Anxiety
A recent survey showed that anxiety is the most common mental health problem among college aged students. According to the 2014 Mental Health Collegiate Report, clinicians identified that for clients who sought out counseling services, anxiety was the top-most concern of nearly 20 percent of all college clients. From trying to please “helicopter parents” to keeping up with academics, it could be easy to understand how anxiety can play a role in college life. However, anxiety is more than just the typical stress associated with cramming for the next exam.
Anxiety is a prolonged state of worry and is accompanied by both psychological, as well as physical symptoms. Anxiety is sometimes associated with a specific fear or worry about a situation or object which may induce fear or avoidance. At times, the fear may become so overwhelming it results in a panic attack, in which the individual experiences physiological symptoms and intense fear or discomfort regarding the situation or object. Anxiety can cripple students in their studies and make it difficult for them to carry out their everyday tasks, both academically and socially.
Adult Coloring Books – These have become more popular and mainstream recently, but this technique has actually been around for a long time as an effective method to stress reduction. A form of expressive therapy, sitting down and taking some time to color or draw can give a person a chance to relax. The repetitive nature of coloring and drawing through patterns and pictures has been shown to help ease stress and anxiety.
Stress Boxes – Because mental wellbeing has become more of a forefront issue among college students, many colleges have taken a proactive stance in helping students with managing stress and anxiety. Some colleges have developed boxed kits targeted at providing information and resources to help students manage stress levels. The kits might include: stress balls, self-help books and workbooks, chamomile or lavender tea, a classical music CD and helpful information and brochures about stress and anxiety.
- Dear Anxious College Students: Slow Down, Breathe
- Anxiety More Than Depression Concerns College Students Today
- Anxious Students Strain College Mental Health Centers
Learning Disabilities
In previous decades a learning disability might have been a “death sentence” for any hopes of a college career. Only 19 percent of young adults with disabilities enroll in a four-year college or university, according to a 2011 report from the National Center for Special Education Research. However, colleges have come a long way in offering students a tailored approach to meet their needs and assist them in their pursuit of a college degree. Learning disabilities can come in many forms, but nearly all are unseen and usually undetectable to the general population. Many learning disabilities will be diagnosed in early childhood through routine screening procedures, but many others are not diagnosed until their 20’s or 30’s. It is possible some students will progress through grade school and begin their college career undiagnosed, especially those students who are able to maintain adequate grades despite their disability.
- Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Speech and Language Disorders
- Developmental Reading Disorders (such as Dyslexia)
- Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders
Staff and Professors – One of the best forms of support for students with learning disabilities will be the college professors and staff themselves. It may be difficult for students to reach out to these individuals for fear of whether or not a professor will take them seriously and the stigma involved. However, it is important to remember these individuals are there to help and will most likely be very accommodating. If professors are made aware of issues in the beginning, then they can know how to help students before their academic work suffers.
Disability Resource Centers – Most campuses will have available various centers on campus to assist with homework and subject specific tutoring. Students may find there are also centers to accommodate for learning disabilities. Some of these centers may include: writing centers, academic centers, peer tutoring and disability resource centers. Students may need to provide appropriate documentation and proof of disability for some services.
Friends of Quinn – This is an online organization with a mission to help young adults with learning disabilities and differences. The goal is to assist young adults who may be attending college or entering the workforce. The website hosts a number of valuable resources and information for students, as well as personal stories of motivation and encouragement.
- Success in College Despite Learning Disabilities
- Learning Disabilities Guide
- Rights and Responsibilities of College Students with Learning Disabilities
Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders have become a growing concern on college campuses around the country. Eating disorders can be tied to a number of emotional and behavioral challenges such as fear of food, being overweight, negative body image, lack of self-confidence, anxiety, as well as abuse and trauma. Not only are eating disorders an emotional problem, but they’re also a serious physical problem. Excessive worry about body image, restriction of food intake, extreme weight loss or weight gain and overconsumption of food are all issues which can have severe consequences.
Binge Eating – Characterized by the consumption of an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most people would eat in a similar period under similar circumstances in a similar period of time. In addition, individuals may experience rapid eating, lack of control during the eating episode, feeling guilty about overeating and experiencing discomfort after meals.
Anorexia Nervosa – Individuals demonstrating anorexic symptoms restrict food intake in efforts to lose weight rapidly and maintain a very low weight. These individuals have an intense fear of gaining weight or of becoming fat and have a misperception about their weight or shape. Those that suffer from anorexia may display peculiar food behaviors such as a preoccupation with food, hoarding food and a strong desire to control one’s environment.
Bulimia – Bulimia is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating which are often followed by behaviors to compensate for weight gain. These behaviors usually occur in the form of self-induced vomiting; misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications; fasting; or excessive exercise. This disorder is also accompanied by a preoccupation or misperception of weight and body shape.
Proud2BeMe on Campus – The Proud2BeMe initiative was born out of the need for more recognition and education regarding eating disorders for the college student body. The concentration is to bring students, faculty and campus services together to fight eating disorders. The organization provides brochures, teaching resources, webinars and more to those who want to get involved.
Awareness Events – Some universities have incorporated awareness events in conjunction with National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. These events can provide a variety of community collaboration and partners to provide information, education and resources to the student body. For more information for how to get involved in the Awareness week, see the National Eating Disorder Awareness website.
- College Life & Eating Disorder Recovery: How to Handle Meals in a Dorm Cafeteria
- Why are College Students Vulnerable to Eating Disorders?
- Psych Central’s Guide to Eating Disorders
- Online Eating Disorder Screening
Substance Abuse and Addiction
Experimentation with drugs and alcohol among college students has been nearly deemed a “rite of passage” by society and the media. According to Addiction Center.com, those who are enrolled in a full-time college program are twice as likely to abuse drugs and alcohol than those who do not attend college. As common as it may seem, the use of these substances can become problematic when they are abused, resulting in problems with students’ social lives, class work, peer groups, legal issues, financial problems and family dysfunction. Substance abuse can be a very complicated issue tied to emotional, environmental and genetic factors. It is common for substances abusers and those that struggle with addiction to not even be aware of the distress caused in their everyday lives, a phase typically referred to as denial. Students may abuse substance such as: alcohol; caffeine; hallucinogens; inhalants; opiods; sedatives, hypnotics and anxiolytics; stimulants; tobacco; and other unknown substances.
Spirituality and Religious Care – For some students, their personal faith may play a huge part in their recovery. The 12-Step program is grounded in faith and often involves individuals relying on a “higher power” for hope and guidance. Spiritual students may have turned to religious and spiritual groups in the past for guidance regarding their emotional concerns. Attending college away from home and away from the student’s church or spiritual organization may leave them feeling lost. Most campuses offer some types of service on campus or students can contact the Student Services center to inquire about religious groups within the community.
Support Groups – Attending a support group can give those struggling with substance abuse and addiction a place to belong and share with others of similar affliction. These groups can be powerful because they offer a way for those attending to discuss their struggles and problems without fear of judgment and ridicule. Many campus support groups come in many forms including: 12-Step Programs, Alcoholics Anonymous, and Narcotics Anonymous.
- A Bridge to Recovery on Campus
- Why College Students Turn to Drugs
Self Harming
Whether it’s a friend, family member, child or yourself, self-injury can be disturbing, concerning and confusing. Many wonder why anyone would want to hurt their self and whether or not it could be an indication of something more serious, such as suicidal ideations. Self-harming or self-injury refers to a variety of behaviors which might include cutting, burning, scratching, tearing of skin, mutilation, etc. There may be many different reasons people injure themselves people injure themselves including seeking attention, self-soothing, a cry for help and the relief of emotional pain as the body expresses this pain through physical pain. Individuals that self-harm often feel this is an outlet for their pain in which they do not hinder or burden another.
It can be. While the behavior may seem very concerning because if someone wants to hurt themselves, it might be assumed they also want to end their life, this is most often not the case. Some individuals self-harm as a way to cope with negative emotions and avoid suicide. However, because of the apparent emotional pain these individuals often suffer with, they are at a higher risk for suicide than those that do not self-harm. This is cause for concern and to take notice of anyone that inflicts self-harm.
College Mental Health Center – Self-harming can be a sign of something more serious. As such, it is important to get appropriate help. A college mental health center can be a great place to begin. Mental health professional will be trained to assist in a non-judgmental way and point students in the right direction for additional help and support. A qualified counselor or therapist can also help to determine whether or not a student’s self-harming indicates the need for further evaluation or referral.
Coping Support Group – Some colleges and universities have taken it upon themselves to form support groups for those students that have exhibited or expressed self-harming behaviors. These students may be identified by a professor or staff member and then referred to the school’s counseling center. From there, the counseling professional may explore with the student whether or not a support group would be beneficial. Schools and counselors can work together to establish these groups on campus for easy access for students. The groups can explore effective strategies for managing stress, learn skills for mindfulness and meditation and serve as a place to monitor those students that are more at risk.
Use Less Severe Alternatives – Using a less severe method to engage in self-injurious behavior may seem like an odd suggestion, but this can be an effective strategy in assisting those in need. After all, self-harming is a coping mechanism for an emotional pain, stress or anxiety. The physical pain helps alleviate the emotional pain. Using a less severe method may provide the relief a person needs without causing concerning physical harm. Some less severe methods might be: snapping a rubber band on the wrist, pressing a cold ice cube to the skin, drawing a red line on the wrist or even chewing a sour piece of candy.
- Cutting: The Self-Injury Puzzle
- Helping Self Harming Students
- Cutting and Self-Harming
Suicide
At times the weight of the world can seem overwhelming and thoughts of ending one’s life may come to the surface. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in college students. College life brings an additional amount of stress and new “firsts” for college students that may leave an individual feeling alone, isolated and as if no one cares about what they are experiencing. In addition to the newfound independence and the difficult transition of college life, many students may already be struggling with mental illness or undiagnosed disorders.
Suicide Prevention – The best approach to suicide is prevention. Suicide is final and is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. It serves to recognize prevention is the best method in attempting to assist students with this issue. Suicide prevention can come in many forms including support groups, on campus counseling centers, crisis hotlines and information on how to help someone who is suicidal. Education to the general student body regarding how to help a peer and who to contact can also be helpful. It is pertinent students know they may be the most important person involved in preventing suicide for a roommate, friend, team member or classmate.
College Peer Support Program – Often times, the peers of college students know them best. They spend the most time with them, see them in various settings and know more about them as individuals. They are their friends, classmates, roommates and team members. The student body may be the best tool for prevention and intervention at a college or university. With a peer support program, students are trained in suicide prevention. They learn the signs and what to say and not say to someone who is contemplating suicide. These students are trained how to interact in brief intervention with a peer and how to contact appropriate professionals for additional help.
Lifeline E-Cards – The Suicide Prevention Lifeline organization has made it convenient to send a free E-Card straight from their website to someone that may be exhibiting warning signs. An e-card can let individuals know that someone cares about them and their well-being and may be just the gesture they need to get through a tough time. E-cards can be a way for loved ones and parents to stay connected to the college student. E-cards can be sent in response to the death of a loved one, loss of a relationship or to offer emotional support.
Talk to them – If you know of someone who demonstrates any suicidal symptoms, it may be important to have a conversation with them. You will NOT be “putting thoughts into their head” about suicide. Ask them if they are thinking about hurting themselves and assess whether or not they have any sort of intentional plan, such as how they would do it and when. You may be just the person that intervenes in time to allow them to verbalize their thoughts and get the help they need.
Encourage the person to seek help – If the person has expressed they are not thinking about killing themselves, then put them in touch with resources and support that can help them with any ongoing issues.
Contact help immediately – If the person does have a plan and a clear intent to commit suicide, then it becomes your responsibility to contact a mental health professional, care provider or 911 immediately. The person may become upset with you and not want you to make these connections, but consider weighing out the alternative if this person commits suicide and you chose not to intervene. Maintain contact with the person and keep them in eye sight until help arrives. The National Suicide Hotline number is 1 (800) 273-8255.
- Shedding Stigma to Stop Suicides on College Campus
- Suicide on Campus and the Pressure of Perfection
- Recognizing the Warning Signs of Suicide in College Students
General Health and Wellness
Along with all of the information provided to understand and treat mental health issues among college students, perhaps the best method is simply taking care of one’s general health and wellness. Getting adequate rest, nutrition, exercise and self-care is one of the best ways to take care of mental and physical health.
Sleep – Between research papers, final exams and a very active social life, many students experience a severe lack of sleep during college. Adequate sleep is important for students both for health and academically. Lack of sleep has been linked to a number of problems including depression, weight gain, “brain fog”, anxiety, as well as fatigue. Inadequate sleep impacts hormones in the body that help stabilize mood and helps to regulate other processes in the body. Students should aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.
Sleep Technology – Recently, many apps and technological advances have made it possible for individuals to track the quality of their sleep. The Jawbone is one such device in which students can track the number of hours they sleep each night, the quality of that sleep and then have the sleep recorded to an application to compare results. The device provides helpful tips and coaching for better sleep along the way. There are also a number of smartphone applications that help instill healthy sleep habits.
Bedtime Routine – For many people, the hour before bedtime has also become the hour in which individuals tend to engage in the use of technological devices. Most textbooks are now formatted for digital use on an ereader or tablet device and college students are notorious for late night “cram sessions.” The glow of the light from the screens of these devices has been proven to cause problems with sleep patterns. It is recommended for students to establish a bedtime routine, even in college, in which they practice some downtime from all devices as a way to signal the brain that it’s time for sleep.
Nutrition – Maintaining a nutritious diet can go a long way in helping students stay healthy while attending college. Students may be tended to compliment an “all night study session” with pizza and multiple caffeinated beverages. However, it’s these types of habits which often lead to the “Freshman 15” so many students fear. College campuses offer multiple options for students to fill their diets with nutritious choices.
Meal Plans – The dining hall will typically host a variety of foods, including fresh options such as a salad bar and grilled entrees. Students can take advantage and opt-in for meal plans which usually include a specified number of meals students can choose to eat in the dining hall. Not only is this a healthier option than fast food, but it may be a better choice for students looking for the convenience of a quick meal while in between classes.
Exercise – Getting enough exercise is just as important as any other area in life. Exercise has been proven to boost mood, increase energy and assist with maintaining a healthy weight. Let alone, multiple studies have cited the importance of getting enough exercise as a natural remedy for many mental health issues, including the top two mental health issues affecting college students, anxiety and depression.
Campus Gymnasium or Recreation Center – Most colleges and universities offer some type of indoor gymnasium or pool area available to students for recreational activities and exercise. Some of these areas are equipped with various exercise equipment, such as weight machines, treadmills or elliptical machines for students to utilize. The use of these facilities is usually included with tuition.
Sports – In college, there is a significant emphasis placed on collegiate athletics and sports. Many of these teams may involve “trying out” in order to join. Not all students will be appropriate for competitive sports, but many colleges also offer intramural sports teams, as well. Typically, these teams are less strict on the members they accept and instead, the goal is simply to have fun.
Self-Care – College life can be extremely busy and stressful. Students attempt to keep up with assignments, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs and their social lives, leaving them feeling more stressed and exhausted than ever. With so much going on, it can be difficult to remember to practice relaxation and self-care. It’s just as important for students to take a “time-out” for themselves and spend some extra time to unwind.
Yoga – Along with many other clubs and organizations, most campuses also host Yoga as a means for students to improve upon their physical fitness, as well as cope with stress. Yoga has been found to be very beneficial in relieving stress, tension and anxiety.
Meditation – Meditation, or practicing mindfulness, has become more popular in recent years. Meditation is the act of attempting to clear the mind and become aware of the present moment. The act of meditation has been found to be very helpful in relieving stress, helping with insomnia and even improving some chronic illnesses. There are several smartphone applications available to assist in practicing meditation and can provide easy access for college students.
Relationships – Human beings are social creatures and even in a time when it seems like an individual’s social life should be at its peak, many students report feeling isolated and lonely. It may be difficult for those students typically characterized as “shy” or “quiet” to find their place among the college crowd. It is important for students to not only connect with new friends, but to also continue building on those already established, such as high school friends and family.
Clubs and Organizations – College offers many opportunities to get involved in different activities, clubs, sports and organizations. Students can contact the Student Services center to find out about various clubs. Many colleges also offer “club days” in which the college hosts an event and clubs and organizations are able to invite students to ask questions to inquire about various activities.
Family Involvement – Even though students are attempting to spread their wings and leave the nest, this phase of life is as important as ever to keep parents involved. Parents can continue to guide students in their choices and ensure their children are getting all of their needs met, both physically and mentally. Most colleges have “family day” events in which students can invite their family to attend. Students can involve their parents in their college life by escorting their parents on tours of the campus, inviting parents to campus activities and talking to parents about their college experience.
National Organizations and Resources
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Anxiety and Depression Association of America — An organization with a mission to promote the prevention, treatment and cure of anxiety and mood disorder through advocacy and education.
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National Institute of Drug Abuse – a federally funded organization supporting the scientific research on drug use and its consequences. They strive to advance the science on the consequences of drug use and addiction, as well as provide valuable resources to the general public.
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Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) — An association that visualizes a world in which individuals with learning disabilities are empowered and can thrive. They provide information, education and advocacy.
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National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) — NEDA supports individual and families impacted by eating disorders. The website serves as a hub for information, education and providing national awareness and advocacy.
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Eating Disorder Hope – This website provides support in the form of article posts by professionals, as well as individuals providing personal stories and inspiration. The website also offers a resource in connecting individuals with various treatment options by location.
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline — This website provides 24/7 access to help and support via a national hotline. Anyone in crisis, in need of emotional support can call 1-800-273-TALK to be routed to the nearest crisis support center.