The levels of depression exhibited by college students has been on the rise for the past 15 years, leading to urgent discussions about this topic at colleges across the U.S. A national study that has monitored U.S. college students for the last 15 years found that college student depression has continued to rise, especially since the pandemic began, as well as during periods of economic uncertainty and social isolation, which have all had an impact on young adult life. According to researchers, a higher number of students than ever before are reporting major depressive symptoms and many are still not seeking assistance, even if assistance is available through counseling or crisis services located on their campus.
College student depression shows an intriguing characteristic associated with male college students who are encouraged to disclose mental health concerns as opposed to other college students (females or nonbinary individuals). Additionally, college students who are from low socioeconomic status, first-generation college students, and students of colour endure greater levels of stress related to financial challenges, discrimination and familial pressures which contribute to an increase in anxiety and/or depression for college students overall.
In response to college student depression, many universities have expanded access to mental health services to provide early intervention for mental health problems through more secure and comforting venues. To achieve this goal, universities are offering 24/7 text/chat lines, group drop-ins, and mental health literacy workshops to help students who seek help feel secure. An important part of the process is for the student to be “seen,” as opposed to being treated like a numerical statistic; this requires that there be, at minimum, one adult connecting with the student without providing any information that would identify the student or describe their situation.
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