Why Does College Feel Overwhelming?
College is a new and exciting time for many. This time encourages independence,
growth, and discovery within emerging adults. Although college can be a fun experience, for
several students, it comes with immense pressure. It can be a challenge balancing studying,
fostering new relationships, learning how to be self-reliant, and managing finances. All of these
new challenges can often overwhelm students and negatively affect their mental health. Anxiety
is a common mental health issue that students can struggle with. Research shows that several
college students face anxiety, depression, stress, and pressure that can hinder daily functioning.
Anxiety can also cause students to feel alone. However, understanding what anxiety is and
learning healthy coping skills can help students feel supported and less alone.
Why Anxiety and is it Really Common?
Yes! Studies show that anxiety is very common among college students. In fact, anxiety
and depression are the most common mental health issues among college students
(Kumaraswamy, 2013). Research also shows that some stresses may increase anxiety. Some
common stressors students may experience include academic pressure, challenges with adjusting
to their new life away from home, and a lack of familiar support. Although many students
experience anxiety, the level and intensity will vary from person to person. Another study
showed that 88% of students have reported expressing anxiety at some point in their college
career (Asif et al.,2020). Research shows how prevalent anxiety can be. This research and
statistics show that students are not alone. These overwhelming feelings are experienced by
many college students. Although many students experience anxiety, many often find it difficult
to seek help. However, please know that every student deserves to find happiness in this new
phase of their lives and does not have to suffer in silence.
Symptoms, What to Look For:
Anxiety can present differently depending on the person. It can show up in several forms
- Physical:
fatigue, muscle tension, shaky/trembling, racing heart, headaches, shortness of
breath, or sleep disturbance.
- Behavioral:
concentration issues, avoidance, procrastination, and withdrawal from
people or activities
- Emotional:
irritability, restlessness, or worrying
Being able to recognize these symptoms is beneficial. However, without proper support, stress
and worrisome thoughts can quickly become too overwhelming.
Coping Strategies and Finding Help:
Anxiety does not have to be all-consuming nor control your life.
Anxiety can be effectively managed in a variety of ways. Research findings demonstrate the positive effect that early intervention, support, and accessible health care can have.
- Support: If you are feeling anxious, reach out to someone. Tell a friend, classmate,
professor, or even family member about what is going on. Finding support can help you
take the step to seek counseling.
- College Campus Counseling Services:
College campuses offer a variety of resources. Taking the time to
check out campus resources can help you find a variety of counseling options.
- Self-Care and Mindfulness:
It is important to take time for yourself outside of being a
student. Getting proper sleep, creating healthier eating habits, being active, and
socializing outside of class can be self-care. Writing in journals and participating in
mindful practices can also decrease symptoms and improve focus.
- Campus Programs:
Look for and attend events that are meant to help manage stress.
For example, campuses have emotional support animal days. They may have workshops
focused on mindfulness, stress, and time management. Participating in non-school-related
events can help with feeling overwhelmed. For example, attending food events, clubs,
craft, and game nights.
What Should I Do If I Am Feeling Anxious?
Reach out. Seeking help is not a weakness; in fact, reaching out shows strength. Anxiety among
college students requires empathy, support, and care. Students’ overall welfare and academic
performance can have a positive impact through support, healthy coping mechanisms, and
seeking help. Therapy is a safe space where students can find that. If you or a loved one is
experiencing signs or symptoms of anxiety, reach out to us to set up a consultation. Therapy can
be helpful in navigating this transitional time.
References:
Asif, S., Mudassar, A., Shahzad, T. Z., Raouf, M., & Pervaiz, T. (2020). Frequency of
depression, anxiety, and stress among university students. Pakistan journal of medical
sciences. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7372668/
Kumaraswamy, N. (2013). Academic stress, anxiety, and depression among college
students- A brief review. International Review of Social Sciences and Humanities,5(1)
135-143. (n.d.). https://www.sciepub.com/reference/350022
Pedrelli, P., Nyer, M., Yeung, A., Zulauf, C., & Wilens, T. (2015, October). College
students: Mental Health Problems and Treatment Considerations. Academic psychiatry :
the journal of the American Association of Directors of Psychiatric Residency Training
and the Association for Academic Psychiatry.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4527955/