Abstract:
University students have been the focus of negative headlines about everything from
binge drinking to campus crime but now a new concern may dwarf the earlier crises
namely: an alarming increase in cases of mental illness on college campuses. The average
age of onset for many mental health conditions is the typical University age range of 18
to 24 years. The common stressors include greater academic demands; new financial
responsibilities; changes in social life; exposure to new people, ideas and temptations;
greater awareness of sexual identity; and anxiety about life after graduation.
Additionaly, the transition from high school to University is filled with anticipation,
excitement, and enthusiasm. Along with the positive feelings often associated with
university life, challenges include; geographic changes, the rigors of academics, loss of
familiar surroundings, and an entirely new interpersonal environment among other
challenges. Indeed, from a developmental perspective, the age at which many students
begin their higher education has important implications for adjusting effectively to the
University landscape. The process of identity development accelerates during the
college years due to increased opportunities and freedom to explore various careers,
lifestyles, and worldviews that were not as prevalent during high school. Navigating
the process of identity development can lead to self-doubt, social withdrawal,
loneliness, lowered self-esteem, and even depression. A recent survey involving 1,455
students, reported that of those students who experienced depressive symptoms since
beginning University, the four most commonly cited reasons for their depression were
academic problems, loneliness, economic problems, and relationship difficulties. Thus
although many University students are able to experience the pleasures and novelties
of college life without experiencing debilitating adjustment difficulties, a significant
number develop elevated levels of depression during these formative years.
