College ― it should be an exciting time and the ideal space for learning and personal growth, yet many of today’s students are struggling more than ever. Between recovering from an isolating pandemic and experiencing a fluctuating job market, students are tackling academic pressures, social anxiety, emotional stress, financial worries and career readiness fears.
And while student mental health is a growing concern on college campuses nationwide, we also can’t forget about the educators. Student mental health needs can often fall on instructors, while they are dealing with their own concerns of stress and burnout, as well as personal and professional demands.
In our 2023-2024 Digital Learning Pulse Survey, most respondents said that “stress is a top barrier for students, faculty and administrators.”
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month was founded by Mental Health America organization in 1949 to raise awareness of mental illness and mental health.
This month serves as a reminder for higher ed institutions to prioritize the well-being of their communities by building initiatives that aim to destigmatize mental health struggles and promote support.
But, mental health is complex and sensitive, and navigating it can be tricky. We offer a few resources that include insights, statistics and strategies to help approach the issues surrounding mental health in higher education, both in and out of the classroom.
Student, faculty and administrator thoughts
“30% of admin, students and faculty aren’t sure their institution provides support services to help them deal with stress.” – 2023-2024 Digital Learning Pulse Survey
Our Digital Learning Pulse Survey is an ongoing research series that explores how students, faculty and administrators feel about the most pressing issues in higher education today – including stress and institutional support for health and well-being.
For our most recent survey, in development with Bayview Analytics and in partnership with ACCT (Association of Community College Trustees), ACUE and CollegePulse, we gathered responses from over 1,100 faculty and administrators and more than 2,200 students from over 1,200 institutions.
Student mental health
“44% of students screened positive for depression.” – Navigating Mental Health Issues on Campus
Our eBook, “Navigating Mental Health Issues on Campus” includes insights and statistics, as well as steps higher ed institutions can take to address student mental health. It covers student challenges, instructor perspectives and resources for faculty who want to help. From a snapshot of mental health in higher education to tips from peers, we explore approaches to recognize and help students who are struggling.
Instructor mental health
“One in three faculty have suffered from burnout.” – How to Combat Burnout, a Guide for Instructors
In today’s ever-shifting education realm, instructors are under increasing pressure to stay ahead, which means doing more, more often. This kind of pressure, when not taken care of, can lead to the prevalent problem of burnout.
What’s more, burnout comes in many shapes and sizes, making it difficult to identify and easy to neglect.
In “How to Combat Burnout, a Guide for Instructors,” we dive into the burnout problem. We explore the symptoms and risks, as well as highlight strategies to help prevent and tackle it. After all, less burnout leads to better teaching – and learning.
Addressing mental health in higher education: an ongoing effort
Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportune time for higher ed institutions to commit to the prioritizing mental well-being of their campuses – not just in May, but throughout the term. Everyone faces their own unique stressors but one thing’s for sure, supporting the mental health of students, admin and faculty is crucial for a positive and effective educational environment.
Let’s keep the conversation on mental health in higher education going. Browse more articles on the issue.
