College can be an exciting time, though for some it can be overwhelming and stressful. Depression, anxiety, substance use, and eating disorders are common mental health issues on college campuses.
According to a 2008 American College Health Association survey, within the last 12 months, 30 percent of students reported feeling so depressed that it was difficult to function and 49 percent felt overwhelming anxiety. In additional, 10 percent of students also reported being diagnosed or treated for depression and more than six percent seriously considered suicide.
Major depression increases the likelihood of substance abuse, impairs functioning at school; and influences an individual’s subsequent development in negative ways. Depression can also co-occur with other disorders, including physical illnesses and other mental disorders, such as anxiety and eating disorders. It is important to have mental health services available on college campuses for students who need help.
