The rise of mental health problems in students is at its peak. This is due to various reasons, such as trying to balance jobs and personal life at the same time. Many feel overburdened with academic demands: deadlines, exams and projects. For some, the weight is too much to handle.
Students show their concerns on mental health challenges. These range from anxiety and depression to burnout. Stress from school is a major factor of breaking point, according to the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO).
“I definitely have a bit of anxiety, but everyone in the programs is fairly supportive,” said Sky Garland, a first year student from arts fundamentals.
According to studies during covid back in 2019, one out of five students experienced mental health issues. Post-COVID survey shows 6.67 per cent of people don’t have any kind of mental health challenges, but 13.33 per cent of students are still dealing with mental health problems.
Another factor of stress is caused by financial issues. Students work part-time jobs to cover tuition fees, rents, groceries and other expenses. As a result, this can save a little time for relaxation and self-care. Social expectations such as making new friends, managing relationships, or feeling like they belong further contribute to their mental strain.
A study in BMC Public Health highlights the cumulative effects of financial and social stressors, noting their significant role in deteriorating student mental well-being.
“Young men dealing with drug addiction, which are often because of the mental stress that’s been going behind those things that we often ignore,” said Aman Aman, a third-year student from advertising and marketing, also the SSU executive officer of the mental health club.
According to a BMC Public Health study, these stresses frequently show themselves as burnout, anxiety, difficulty to focus, or a sense of helplessness. Because these symptoms are unseen, students are afraid to ask for support.
Awareness campaigns and community support can break the stigma surrounding mental health.
“Students dealing with a mental health crisis will refer them to Sheridan’s counseling services,” said Grayson Hicks, a peer mentor team member.
Services such as counselling services, workshops, and others are available at Sheridan College for those who are dealing with mental health problems.
The college’s focus is in line with Universities Canada’s recommendations, which stress the value of adaptive support networks and easily accessible health services. Additionally, staff members are urged to make arrangements whenever necessary in order to encourage an empathy and understanding culture.
Students use a variety of ways to cope with mental health problems, such as exercise, yoga, and personal interests. Stress can also be reduced through adopting good habits, such as making time management and sleep a priority. Peer support groups, as advised by HEQCO, provide a sense of belonging and minimize emotions of depression.
“We engage with students to see how they’re coping with the workload.” Said Harsheta kaur, a peer mentor team member.
In order to address mental health issues, communities, families, and colleges have to collaborate together. Students are given the assistance they require to succeed academically and personally through programs like peer networks, awareness campaigns, and easily accessible resources.
Schools like Sheridan College are making major progress toward educating their students for future success by placing a high priority on mental health.