Impact of Anxiety on College Students

This might be a heavier topic, but as someone who experiences anxiety myself, I'm curious which group of students is most affected by anxiety? And how do colleges usually support these students?

Anxiety is a common concern among college students, and it's essential to recognize its prevalence and impact. More often than not, it can affect any student regardless of their background, but some groups may be more likely to experience it than others because of specific stressors related to their identities or situations, such as first-generation college students, international students adjusting to a new culture, or students with financial strains.

First generation college students may experience higher anxiety levels due to the pressure of navigating an unfamiliar environment without the guidance of parents who have previous college experience. International students living in a different country away from their familiar surroundings and attempting to adapt to a new culture can also be a source of considerable stress. Another group that tends to experience high levels of anxiety are those students who are under significant financial strain. Working long hours in addition to carrying a full course load can lead to stress and anxiety.

Supportive resources vary by institution, but mental health support is increasingly recognized as a critical component of student health services. Many colleges have developed comprehensive support systems, such as offering counseling centers where students can receive therapy or counseling, sometimes free of charge. Other colleges offer peer-support programs, stress-reduction workshops, referrals for psychiatric services, and online resources for self-help.

In recent years, many schools have also acknowledged the importance of preventative measures, integrating wellness programming into the campus culture to help students develop stress management, relaxation skills, and resilience. Examples of these programs include meditation sessions, yoga classes, or mindfulness training.

However, every college student's anxiety experience is unique and no 'one size fits all' solution exists. It's therefore crucial, if you feel that your anxiety is impacting your ability to function or enjoy life, to seek out help, whether that be campus resources, seeking counsel outside the institution, or engaging in self-care and mindfulness practices.