You are Not Alone.

Navigating your four years of college can be extremely difficult. When you move to college, you find yourself in a new city, surrounded by new people, and faced with new expectations. Especially during the pandemic making this transition can make you feel isolated or confused. But, you are not alone.

If we can better understand why this happens, we may be able to help ourselves and each other during troubling times.

The Study

"Mental health issues are the leading impediment to academic success."

Researchers in Texas conducted a study amongst college students from a university in Texas that assessed the effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on the mental health of college students. After a series of surveys were distributed to 195 students, researchers found that 71% of the students shared that the pandemic has caused them increased stress and anxiety. Specifically, these stressors included worrying about their own health or that of their loved ones, difficulty in concentrating, disrupted sleep patterns, decreased social interactions due to pandemic regulations, and increased concerns on academic performance.

Now What?

"To cope with stress and anxiety, participants have sought support from others and helped themselves by adopting either negative or positive coping mechanisms."

After analyzing this study, we are more aware of the detrimental effects the pandemic is having on college student's physical and mental health. Because this new way of life is so new, we may not have all the answers to alleviating the problem, but we are resilient human beings who have the power to enact change. It is important to seek professional help if you are feeling the effects of any of the stressors take a toll on your mental well-being. Reach out to your university for resources and help whether that is in the form of academic help, social help, or physical/mental help. And, remember, you are not alone!

Son, Changwon et al. “Effects of COVID-19 on College Students' Mental Health in the United States: Interview Survey Study.” Journal of medical Internet research vol. 22,9 e21279. 3 Sep. 2020, doi:10.2196/21279