College Students' Psychological
Problems Increase
In a 2002 national survey, more than 80 percent of 247 directors
of counseling centers said they thought the number of students
with severe psychological disorders had increased over the previous
five years. In addition, a study conducted at the counseling
center of Kansas State University found that between 1989 and
2001, the percentage of students treated for depression and the
percentage of suicidal students doubled. More than two times
the percentage of students are taking prescription medications
for their mental health issues.
The study was based on forms filled out by therapists after treating
more than 13,000 students between 1989 and 2001.
Other findings showed that problems related to stress, anxiety,
learning disabilities such as attention deficit disorder, family
issues, grief, and sexual assault increased also. More traditional
complaints from college students; separation from home, romantic
relationships, and career choices likewise increased.
The lead author of the study, which is the largest of its kind,
is, Dr. Sherry A. Benton. She is the assistant director of training
at the counseling center in Manhattan, Kansas. Dr. Benton, referring
to the study, stated, "What we are seeing is people with
multiple problems, and some of those are significantly more serious".
Mental health professionals at other colleges across the United
States said the study established their belief that students
are struggling with more serious issues and distress than in
the past.
Dr. Benton and her colleagues cannot cite a clear reason for
the dramatic increase. However, there are contributing factors
to help explain this phenomenon. One such contributing factor
is the greater awareness of mental illness coupled with the easing
of the stigma attached to seeking therapy.
(contd.)
Other factors include the
pressure placed on students to succeed academically and the breakdown
of family support systems.
This study illustrates the extreme importance for young adults
with alcohol and drug abuse issues, entering or currently attending
college, need to be established and secure in recovery before
leaving home.
My experience has been that a minimum of six months of sobriety
is essential for a person to be prepared to be successful in
college. This time allows them to mature emotionally, and socially;
necessary due to the stifling caused by alcohol and drug abuse
and addiction. This time also allows a person to become versed
in seeking out and engaging in support groups and to gain confidence
in themselves and their ability to remain sober. Moreover, it
gives them time to experience many of the positive aspects recovery
brings, thus reinforcing the desire to remain in recovery.
In addition, applying the coping mechanisms and other tools learned
in recovery will assist one in avoiding the trappings associated
with the psychological woes pointed out in Dr. Benton's study.