Seeking Help in College

Written By Morgan Lewis

By: Morgan Lewis

Baltimore, MD - They say college is the time to discover yourself and really find out more about who you are and what you actually want to do or become. This period is often portrayed as a journey of self-exploration, where students are encouraged to find their passions, build lifelong friendships, and lay the foundation for their future careers. However, the reality of college life is often much more complex and challenging than this idolized vision.

For many students, college is not just about academic learning but also about navigating a plethora of new responsibilities and pressures. These can include managing a new academic schedule, dealing with financial stress, living away from home, and balancing a social life. The transition to college can be overwhelming, and the pressure to excel in all these areas can take a significant toll on students’ mental and emotional well-being.

College student stressed out.

According to admissionsly.com, approximately 33% of college students drop out each year. This represents nearly one-third of all enrolled students, highlighting how widespread these struggles can be. Even more concerning is the fact that 28% of students leave before they even reach their sophomore year. This early dropout rate points to the significant difficulties many face in their first year, a crucial period that often determines their future in higher education.

In recent years, mental health has increasingly become a topic of widespread discussion and awareness. It’s encouraging to see more recognition and focus on mental health, especially given how often it was previously dismissed or overlooked. However, this heightened awareness also brings with it some challenges. On one hand, there is a risk of overdiagnosis or misdiagnosis, where mental health conditions might be labeled too broadly or used as an excuse for behavior. On the other hand, despite the growing awareness, many students still struggle to acknowledge or seek help for their mental health issues, especially in a college setting.

College student sitting outside, stressed.

For college students, the shift from being a teenager with certain support structures to an adult with greater independence can be scary. The college environment often emphasizes self-reliance and personal responsibility, which can leave students feeling isolated when they encounter mental health challenges. 

According to a U.S. News/Lab Generation report, only 37% of students surveyed actively sought out mental health resources at their college. Many students who did not seek help cited fears of social stigma, negative past experiences with mental health services, and a belief that mental health care would be ineffective. This hesitation to seek help is emphasized in research by Eisenberg, Golberstein, and Gollust (2007), which found that many college students view their symptoms as typical of college stress and worry about being judged by others if they seek treatment.

So why aren’t more students seeking help, and what does this mean for their future? The fear of stigma and concerns about the effectiveness of mental health care are significant barriers. This hesitation can lead to untreated mental health issues, which may affect academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. As students struggle with mental health challenges without proper support, their future success and mental health may be compromised. To help, I created a playlist for students who are struggling, offering a mix of calming and uplifting songs to get you through tough times.

The transition to college represents a significant period of growth and change, and with it, an increased need for effective mental health support. Despite growing awareness, many students still face barriers to accessing help, which can adversely impact their academic performance and overall well-being. By enhancing accessibility to mental health resources, reducing the stigma around mental health, integrating mental health into campus culture, and continually improving services, colleges can better support their students. Addressing these challenges proactively will not only help students navigate the ups and downs of college life but also set them up for long-term success and mental well-being.

Campus Resources:

  • Campus counseling centers

  • Student health services

  • Peer support programs

Online resources: 

Blog #3 Comm 240

Morgan Lewis
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