Why Depression In College Students Is On The Rise-💜

Key Takeaways

• Depression among college students is growing at a fast pace. Students are regularly reporting major academic stress that is affecting their mental health (Healthy Minds Network).
• The main causes of this stress stem from high academic pressure, social isolation, and financial issues.
• Warning signs appear as persistent sadness, low energy, poor grades, skipping class, sleep issues, changes in eating patterns, isolating from friends, increased substance use and thoughts of suicide.
• Students can leverage tools such as school counseling services, therapy apps like MoodKit and MoodMission, and campus support groups to manage their stress, anxiety, and depression.

Contributing Factors to Rising Depression Rates in College Students

College students are up against a lot of pressure these days. Academic stress is extremely high and competitive, and the expectations can feel overwhelming. Many young people are feeling alone, even when in the presence of others.

Academic Pressure and Performance Expectations

Many college students in Michigan are dealing with extreme academic pressure and stress on a daily basis. This pressure comes from a combination of intense coursework, exams, and strict performance expectations.

Persistent stress and pressure has been leading to a higher risk of students falling into a dark depression due to realistic fears that they will not meet their goals. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic caused many academic delays due to closing schools, moving classes online, and delaying graduation for many students during that time period.

On top of this, receiving poor grades or struggling with finances during this time will also increase the possibility of experiencing mental health problems like depressive disorders or anxiety symptoms.

Social Changes and Isolation

Another aspect of college life is the new living situation you may encounter. College students at this stage in life are often leaving their home for the first time and moving into shared college housing. This may feel lonely, even when you're surrounded by other students.

Disliking your campus environment or having a lack of ongoing social support from family members and friends can also lead to mental health issues.

Using social media is one way of staying in touch after moving away. Talking online or on the phone with loved ones can also bring some comfort, however, it can also cause fear of missing out that can be problematic for your emotional health.

If you're noticing higher rates of sadness or a decrease in your energy level after moving, you should look into mental health resources like visiting campus health centers or participating in talk therapy as part of an initial treatment plan.

Financial Stress and Uncertainty

Financial stress  is another aspect that has the ability to affect students’ mental health during their college experience, especially during the first year as undergraduate students. You're likely worried about tuition bills, rent, and paying for your groceries and electric bill.

When you're struggling with money and adjusting to campus life it's adding additional stress that may lead to symptoms of a mental health disorder.

Studies have shown that money issues play a significant role in students mental health while in college. In fact, more than half of students in some studies reported depression symptoms linked to finances. Medical students in particular are under an extraordinary amount of stress and financial stress, as this education path is very long, arduous, and expensive.

College students worldwide experience depression and can relate to the same financial uncertainty and academic pressure affecting their mental health conditions.

Working with a mental health professional beyond just primary care can help you with stress management and overcoming any mood disorders or anxiety disorders that are triggered by stress over finances. Next, let's learn more about the signs of depression in college students.

Warning Signs of Depression in College Students

The warning signs of depression can look different and appear at any time during your college career, even later during your third year or closer to graduation. It's essential to be able to recognize these signs early on so you can get the help you need.

1. Watch out for persistent feelings of sadness that last weeks or months. Feeling hopeless or empty is also common and can affect your daily life.
2. Lack of energy is another red flag. You might find simple tasks hard to get through, or be sleeping a lot and still feeling tired.
3. Changes in appetite are common too. You may experience weight loss or gain, or lose interest in eating.
4. Social connections will become strained. You may find yourself isolating from friends and activities you once enjoyed. This isolation can lead to even more feelings of sadness.
5. Your performance on tests or assignments may decline. Missing classes will occur more frequently, impacting your education and grades.
6. As you try to manage your stress and sadness, substance use may increase. If you are smoking, drinking a lot of alcohol, or using drugs it could be a warning sign.
7. Sleep disturbances are also not something to ignore. If you're having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night, it will lead to more fatigue during the day.
8. Irritability, anger, or mood swings will become more frequent, affecting your relationships with friends and family members.
9. If you're finding it hard to stay physically active, it could be a sign that your mental health needs attention.
10. Suicidal thoughts are a more serious sign that you should seek help. If you're feeling like life is not worth living, you must address this quickly and contact mental health services.

Coping Strategies and Support Resources for Students

Being able to manage college depression as a student is a vital skill. Luckily, there are many resources available to assist you.

1. Reach out to local organizations in Detroit like CNS Healthcare for professional mental health treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful for depression.
2. Try using apps that share CBT techniques. Apps like MoodKit and MoodMission offer tools to help you with anxiety and depression in your daily life, anytime, anywhere.
3. Take care of your body by following a healthy lifestyle. Get enough sleep every night to help improve your mood and concentration throughout the day. Eat healthy and stay active to boost endorphins and energy.
4. Reach out to loved ones like friends and family for support when you're feeling low. Family support is a key factor when managing stress and attempting to improve mental health.
5. Research the available university mental health services to find out your counseling options. Many colleges provide free or low-cost support made just for students' needs.
6. Consider taking nutritional supplements like vitamin D, zinc, or magnesium, if recommended by your doctor. This may help improve your mood.
7. Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep-breathing every day to calm your mind and stay centered.
   
   

Finding what techniques work best for you is key in the journey toward better mental health care and a more fulfilling college life.

Help Is Here For You

Depression is a growing concern among college students and international students across the United States. Between growing academic pressure, financial stress, and social expectations, the general student population may feel increasingly depressed and overwhelmed. Fortunately, simple strategies exist to help you manage and overcome any feelings of depression you may be struggling with.

You can find additional resources about depression from government organizations like the National Institute of Mental Health. If you are a local Michigan resident, you can find quick support services from organizations like CNS Healthcare in Detroit. Taking steps for better mental wellness can change your life for the better. If you or someone you know is dealing with depression, ask for help today.

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