Mental health treatment among college students U.S. 2018 | Statista (2024)

FAQs

What percent of college students deal with mental health issues? ›

The American College Health Association (ACHA) published a 2022 study, which surveyed 54,000 undergraduate college students. These individuals were of different identities and backgrounds. According to the study, about 77% of students experienced some kind of psychological distress, either moderate or severe.

The American College Health Association's (ACHA) Spring 2023 national survey of over 55,000 undergraduate students revealed that approximately 76% were experiencing moderate to serious psychological distress. 79% of surveyed students reported they had experienced moderate or high stress levels within the last 30 days.

Researchers found that depression among college students increased by nearly 135% over eight years. That same study found: Anxiety surged by 110% Eating disorders increased at a rate of nearly 96%

Specifically, 44 percent of students reported symptoms of depression; 37 percent said they experienced anxiety; and 15 percent said they were considering suicide—the highest rate in the 15-year history of the survey. More than 90,000 students across 133 U.S. campuses participated in the survey.

In the 2021 Healthy Minds Study, 22% of college students screened positive for major depression, and 41% screened positive for depression overall. This makes depression one of the most common mental health conditions among U.S. college students.

60% of college students reported experiencing one or more mental health challenges in 2021, according to the National Healthy Minds Study(. pdf). The percentage of students experiencing mental health problems has increased nearly 50% since 2013.

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric problems among college students, with approximately 11.9 % of college students suffering from an anxiety disorder [1].

In 2021, more than 4 in 10 (42%) students felt persistently sad or hopeless and nearly one-third (29%) experienced poor mental health. In 2021, more than 1 in 5 (22%) students seriously considered attempting suicide and 1 in 10 (10%) attempted suicide.

One of the greatest challenges on California college campuses is that mental health funding has not kept pace with demand. This disinvestment in crucial services results in understaffed counseling offices, long wait times, and inadequate facilities — all of which negatively affect students seeking help.

Why are mental health issues prevalent among college students? ›

Peer pressure, loneliness, and suddenly being in an unfamiliar environment can contribute to feelings of isolation that may even lead to depression. Academic stress: College is taxing — emotionally, physically, and financially. The demand to succeed and achieve academic excellence can stress students significantly.

The mental health crisis among college students has been building for the past 15 years, with rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide rising dramatically. Recognizing that wellness is a prerequisite for learning and success, colleges and universities are looking for ways to support students' mental health.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in adolescents.

1. Stress, anxiety and depression. Many students experience mental health challenges in college, whether it's related to stress, anxiety or depression. Increased responsibilities, time management, changes in routine, self-care and other personal circ*mstances can all impact mental health in different ways.

Mental Health is part of the California Health Curriculum.

Associate Professor of Health Behavior and Health Education

It found that 44% of students reported symptoms of depression, 37% reported anxiety disorders and 15% reported having seriously considered suicide in the past year—the highest recorded rates in the history of the 15-year-old survey.

Over a third of students report they are navigating an anxiety disorder. Over all, more than six in 10 college students meet the criteria for one or more mental health problems. Most worrying, the proportion of students facing mental health challenges has risen by nearly 50 percent since 2013.

Story Highlights. WASHINGTON, D.C. -- During the spring 2023 semester, 76% of U.S. college students reported experiencing enjoyment during much of the prior day. However, majorities also said they felt stress (66%) and worry (51%).