Today, there is a growing population of college students experiencing anxiety, stress, depression. In a 2014 article from the Iowa Center for Public Affairs, it states from a 2013 survey that showed 14.6 percent of UNI students received mental health services, and the national average is 15.6 percent. The number of students from the University of Northern Iowa who have been diagnosed with depression is the same national percentage at 18.6 percent. Recently, a professor confided in me that many students are experiencing/suffering from anxiety and related topics.
This really shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. Why? We are putting an extreme amount of pressure on students in this day in age.
Students are expected to do the readings, write all the (sometimes) pointless papers, study for that comprehensive final, and participate in that group project where there is only one person doing all the work for (generally) five classes. Oh! And students are expected to get involved in many organizations which require about three hours a week.*
*Not including: making the time to hang out with friends, making the time to check in with parents or siblings, getting good grades, working to pay what financial aid didn't cover, or if the students are questioning if the major they declared is right for them anymore.
Anybody feeling stressed just reading that? I know I am.
Um, Melissa, don't they have to learn how to manage their time? Yes, they do. But when everything is overwhelming to the point of them going back to their dorm room after class and crying because they feel so alone and stressed, there is clearly something else going on. And if you don't agree with me, then I guess you are entitled to your own (wrong) opinion. Not only is anxiety and depression affecting students, but also the faculty including professors, instructors, and so on.
As someone who suffers from anxiety, here are some options for you:
- Talk to a trusted friend, mentor, professor, etc. Let them know what's going on (not many people have the ability to read minds).
- Make an appointment with your on-campus health center. Be proactive!
- Let your professors know about your anxiety. Most of the time, the professors are understanding and will likely help you in any way they can.
- Find a cheesy saying or quote to repeat to yourself when you are feeling stressed. (Trust me on this one. It's something I'm working on.)
- Plan out your weeks. Make time to study, eat, shower, go to class, do homework. Set aside an hour or two a week to take a break from life.
