Health and Wellbeing

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Reasons for Stress, Anxiety and Depression among University Students

The incidence of stress and anxiety is rising among the young population particularly in the university students.

A comprehensive review of literature (published between 2000 to 2020) revealed that psychological, financial, academic, social, life style, and biological issues are main contributing factors toward stress, anxiety and depression (SAD).

Academic factors

Stress, anxiety and depression (SAD) levels were higher among the freshers and the non-native students. Early years of the university put a lot of pressure on the students and when they familiarize with the academic environment and become more confident, SAD levels decrease.

Pressure of grades also cause anxiety and stress. The present education system is more focused on grades and assessments instead of creativity and critical thinking, that makes students depressed and anxious. It has been found that SAD levels were lower among the high achievers as compared to the low achievers.

The negative relation between the students, teachers and other academic staff also cause stress among the students and lowers their self-esteem.

Interestingly, it has been found that SAD levels were higher among the nursing, medical, and other allied health students. These students have to interact with public a lot more than others which is the main cause of stress among these students.

Language is another important reason for SAD among the university students. The students studying in the institutions where the medium of instruction is their non-native language are more prone to stress as compared to others.

                                       

Economic factors

Financial problems are the important reason for SAD among the university students. Lack of the availability of scholarships and high tuition fee causes financial burden that leads to stress and anxiety which in turn causes poor academic performance.

Students with low economic background feel uncomfortable to go outside with their classmates and usually do not take part in extracurricular activities. Even bright students with low socio-economic background suffer from SAD because they feel less privileged. So, there should be more scholarships and financial aid from the government and higher education institutes so that students can primarily focus on their studies. In addition, proper counselling should be provided to these students so they realize that their goals are more important and they should concentrate on achieving them instead of worrying about other matters.

Social factors

Social support is vital for the survival of human beings. Students with little or no social support from family and friends are more vulnerable to anxiety and depression. It is important for the university to create the social networks for new students so that they could involve in engaging activities and connect with others. Social isolation can lead to loneliness and students adopt unhealthy habits such as alcohol or drug consumption.

Life style factors

Life style largely affects the mental health. It has been found that sedentary life style leads to laziness, obesity and depression. Academic burden does not allow the students to live an active life as they spend most of their time in front of screens preparing for quizzes, assignments and exams. Therefore, it is important to take time out and do some exercise on regular basis. Moreover, healthy eating habits can also reduce the risk of SAD.

Sleep deprivation also plays significant role in poor mental health conditions. Apart from academic stress, students spend several hours on social media which compromises their sleep and studies as well.

Psychological factors

Student that live away from home in other cities or countries are more vulnerable to SAD as compared to those living with their families. Feeling of loneliness, low self-esteem and self-doubt may exacerbate the depression and anxiety among the students. Therefore, these concerns should be addressed by parents and teachers and try to make the students more comfortable with the academic settings by providing social and psychological support.

Reference

Mofatteh, M. (2021). Risk factors associated with stress, anxiety, and depression among university undergraduate students. AIMS public health, 8(1), 36.