As college students, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by academic and social pressures. However, in recent years, the college stress by students has reached unprecedented levels. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that college students today are facing an increasing amount of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.
According to a 2022 report by the APA, college students are seeking mental health services at an alarming rate. The study found that 88% of college counseling centers have seen an increase in the number of students seeking mental health services in the past five years, due to college stress. Additionally, 70% of college counseling centers reported an increase in the number of students with severe psychological problems.
One reason for the increase in stress and anxiety among college students is the pressure to succeed academically. The competitive nature of college admissions and the high cost of tuition has created an environment in which students feel that they must achieve perfect grades in order to justify the financial investment they and their families have made in their education.
Social pressures also contribute to college stress. For many students, college is their first experience living away from home, making new friends, and navigating a complex social environment. This can be especially challenging for students who struggle with social anxiety or who come from marginalized backgrounds.
The symptoms of depression can include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Students who are experiencing college stress and depression may also have difficulty concentrating, experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns, experience panic and/or anxiety attacks, and have feelings of worthlessness or guilt. If left untreated, depression can have serious consequences, including a higher risk of suicide.
Ketamine, a drug used primarily as an anesthetic in both humans and animals, has begun to gain traction as a potential treatment for depression. For those who suffer from depression that is resistant to traditional treatments, ketamine can help with depression and be considered a terrific option. Mental health is an incredibly important subject, especially among college students, and it’s essential that we keep exploring all possible treatments — this may be one.
It’s important for college students to seek help if they are experiencing stress or anxiety. Many colleges and universities offer counseling services to students, which can provide them with the support and resources they need to manage their mental health. Additionally, students can take steps to reduce stress by practicing self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
College stress has become a serious issue that requires attention from both individual students and the larger academic community. While it’s normal to feel some level of stress as a college student, excessive stress and anxiety can have serious consequences. Students who are struggling with mental health challenges should not hesitate to seek help and support. By taking care of their mental health, students can better manage the pressures of college and achieve their academic and personal goals.
Contact Bluewater Psychiatry
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, it’s important to seek help. At Bluewater Psychiatry, our team of mental health professionals work to provide individualized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs and personal goals of each patient we serve.