University student mental health crisis: Depression on the rise

BY AHMET TAŞ | WISE NEWS PRESS

ISTANBUL, TURKIYE — A global study published in the journal Nature reveals that mental health issues among university students have surged over the past decade, causing a significant strain on institutional support systems worldwide.

The research, which surveyed 72,288 undergraduate students, highlights an alarming increase in cases of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm, signaling a growing crisis that experts say has been exacerbated by the long-term psychological fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pandemic as a multifaceted health crisis

Dr. Hazal Ayas, Head of the Psychology Department at Uskudar University, evaluated the study’s findings, noting that the pandemic should be viewed as more than just a physiological health threat. According to Ayas, the period served as a social and psychological crisis that created a lasting fragility among young adults. While the immediate peak of the crisis occurred during the lockdowns, the upward trend in mental health struggles has been persistent since 2013.

The impact of the pandemic remains long-term, even as the active health emergency has concluded. Ayas emphasized that the age group of 20–29 is currently identified by the World Health Organization as the demographic where mental disorders are increasing most rapidly. This shift is not merely individual but is driven by a combination of biological vulnerabilities and societal pressures.

Biological and social vulnerabilities in youth

The university years coincide with a critical biological window, as the average onset for major psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, typically occurs between the ages of 19 and 25. This biological factor makes the transition to higher education an inherently sensitive period for psychological health.

Beyond biology, the transition to university life involves significant social stressors. Students often face their first experiences of independence from family, increased academic responsibilities, and the intensification of peer relationships. When these factors are combined with socio-economic disadvantages, financial problems, and a lack of social support, the risk of developing anxiety and depression increases significantly. Ayas noted that while independence is a vital part of maturing, economic instability and future uncertainty can turn this growth phase into a period of extreme vulnerability.

The role of psychological resilience

The study highlights that how individuals interpret challenging life events is often more important than the events themselves. Dr. Ayas pointed out that "psychological flexibility" is a key factor in preventing the development of mental disorders. Developing skills to recognize, express, and regulate emotions is essential for building the resilience needed to navigate the pressures of modern student life.

Economic difficulties and the fear of failure are currently the most prominent risk factors for students. Those from socially disadvantaged groups are particularly at risk, as the pressure to succeed in a precarious job market adds a layer of "future anxiety" that traditional university support systems are often not equipped to handle.

Strengthening preventive mental health services

To address this rising tide of distress, experts suggest that universities must move beyond reactive measures and focus on preventive mental health services. Dr. Ayas suggested that psychological support units should be introduced more effectively during student orientations and must be staffed by specialized professionals who are easily accessible to the student body.

Preventive work is considered as vital as clinical intervention. Ayas recommended that universities should actively support student clubs and social activities to foster social skills and peer support. Organizing festivals, workshops, and events that promote positive life experiences can act as a protective shield for students’ mental well-being. Furthermore, providing economic and social support for disadvantaged groups is a critical step in mitigating the socio-economic triggers of depression.

As a pioneer in this field, Uskudar University has integrated "Positive Psychology" into its mandatory curriculum since 2013, a move that predates similar initiatives in many of the world's leading universities. These "happiness lessons" aim to provide students with the emotional tools required to maintain resilience long before a crisis occurs.

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