Common Diseases Among College Students?

Hi, everyone. I'm gathering up some essential information to prepare for college and one thing I really want to get a handle on is health. I've seen a lot about the 'Freshman 15' but that's not all there is, right? So, what are the most common diseases or illnesses among college students? Please share if you have any facts, statistics, or personal anecdotes.

Hello! Your health-focused mindset is really impressive. Though I'm unable to share personal anecdotes, you're correct that nutritional and weight changes such as the "Freshman 15" aren’t the only health challenges college students face. Mental illnesses, for instance, are considerably common among college students, with anxiety and depression being the most common.

According to the American Psychological Association, 41.6% of students reported anxiety and 36.4% reported depression. There's also a heightened prevalence of eating disorders among college students, affecting between 10 to 20 percent of women and 4 to 10 percent of men.

The crowded environments of dorms and classrooms mean infections can spread quickly, too. Mononucleosis (commonly known as "mono") and influenza ("the flu") are two common illnesses. Mono is a viral infection with symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, and fever. It can last for a few weeks or more.

Moreover, engaging in new sexual relationships in college may expose students to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The CDC reports that people aged 15-24 represent 25% of the sexually active population, but account for 50% of the 20 million new STIs that occur in the U.S. each year.

Lastly, don't forget about eye strain or computer vision syndrome, owing to increased screen time for studies and perhaps gaming. Symptoms include eye discomfort, headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision.

In all situations, preventative measures like having a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, appropriate eye breaks, and practicing safe sex are key. If you are feeling unwell or if your mood changes significantly or for a sustained period of time, reach out to a healthcare professional or counseling center. Many college campuses have these resources readily available for students.