5 Top Causes of Student Depression and How to Fight It

Depression among U.S. college students has more than doubled over less than a decade. A nationwide study conducted from 2007 to 2018 observed that the rates of depression, anxiety, self-injury, and suicide attempts have notably increased over the decade. 

According to the American Psychiatric Association, depression is defined as a medical illness that adversely affects your emotions, thoughts, and actions. The good news is, if you can identify it, it is also treatable. It is undoubtedly easier said than done. Whether it’s psychological help, or simply saying write an essay for me, students are often very reluctant to take the initiative and get help.

If you are showing signs of depression, it could be because of one or more of the following reasons. Educating yourself will help you conquer it.

Challenging Transition

A campus life, away from home, is a new chapter in almost everyone’s life. Unfortunately, as exciting as it might be, many students also find it difficult to cope with the new environment. School surveys report that there is an increase in depression among teens as well. They are only further traumatized by college transition. Taht, in turn, affects other aspects of their lives that follow.

How to Fight It

If, as parents or students, you are worried about the transition, professionals recommend that the mitigation has to start before college. Even better if you consider your mental health while choosing the college itself. If you find yourself struggling while living on the campus, there are always health-care professionals to help you ease into the changes.

Academic Expectations

The pressure to succeed in college is overwhelming. Over 23% of students strongly feel that coursework is the strongest stress inducer in college. Often, your academic performance is considered an indicator of where your future might be headed. The sense of anxiety overpowers students’ ability to carry out their academic assignments as well. They have to juggle between focusing on multiple courses, time management, and finding a job. 

How to Fight It

The result is that students find themselves searching online for any help available, so they can take a break while meeting the high bar set by the competitive environment. Always out your health and well-being as a priority, and talk about how you can better manage the coursework with your professors.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse

There are several reasons why students turn to drugs; stress, course overload, and peer pressure are only a few. Nearly 31% of U.S. college students report symptoms of alcohol abuse. This eventually leads to depression, driving them to drink more. The consequences can lead to additional mental and physical health problems.

How to Fight It

It might be a struggle saying no to parties when you are in a campus atmosphere. However, it is paramount that you prioritize yourself and look for support. If you find that living in a dorm encourages you to drink, find another place to live. Don’t be scared to talk to your parents and counselors to find the support you require.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/1K9T5YiZ2WU 

Financial Stress

7 out of 10 college students are concerned about their finances. It is no surprise considering the ever-rising costs of college and the sizable heap of student debts in the country. Regrettably, worrying about their future negatively impacts their academics leading to additional troubles. Before you know it, you are already caught in the claws of anxiety and depression.

How to Fight it

Setting a budget might help you manage your finances better. There are also dozens of scholarships offering students financial help. Remember that help can come from expected and unexpected sources. Dropping out is only a short-term solution and is worth considering only if you have exhausted all other resources. Focus on academics, and it will help you to a better future to address your financial concerns.

Coronavirus and Depression

In 2020, depression goes hand-in-hand with the pandemic. College students were already susceptible to depression before the COVID-19 forced the campuses to close. But the last year has led to a significant rise in the numbers. In a recent survey, 32% of students reported depression symptoms compared to 15% last year. The surge in numbers is influenced by financial stress, uncertainty with the future, concerns of the virus, witnessing race-based discrimination, and inability to access mental care.

The situation has shed light on several attributes the students have already been struggling with. Schools, universities, and faculty members are consciously making efforts to reach out to students. Parents also have to take the initiative to reach out to children, acknowledge their health problems, and discuss available resources. 

Wrapping Up

Depression originates in your mind and invades it at the same time. Even getting out of bed can seem like a daunting task. However, self-care can be one of the sharpest tools in your recovery arsenal. Make sure you eat well while getting at least 30 minutes of exercise every day.

If you have made positive lifestyle changes without seeing any improvement, it is time to seek professional help. It doesn’t mean you are weak, rather that you are strong enough to fight for yourself.