ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND OTHER CHALLENGES AMONG STUDENTS DURING ACADEMIC LIFE
Keywords:
mental health, academic life, systemic supportAbstract
One of the crucial aspects in assessing the success of universities is students' academic achievement, which represents the outcome of performance in intellectual domains. However, it is increasingly relevant to integrate and ensure students' personal growth and development. Throughout the higher education process, various motivating factors exist including negative (stressful) factors that can influence students' mental health. These stressors are different and can be based on the academic environment, society, and the individual. The promotion and enhancement of mental health, as defined by the WHO, involve processes enabling individuals to increase control and improve their health, focusing on activities to enhance the quality of life and increase the potential for quality health (both physical and mental).
Over the past decade, awareness of the importance of mental health among student populations has increased. The interplay of risk factors arising from the academic environment along with biological, psychological, and societal risk factors results in common complaints of mental health difficulties among students across various academic programs worldwide. Depending on the strength and duration of these risk factors, the negative impact on students' health may be temporary, with limited intensity, or chronic, prolonged, with the potential for developing mental disorders. This study aims to explore students' current challenges and needs related to mental health at the "Goce Delcev" University in Stip.
Materials and methods involved a questionnaire implemented via student email in November 2023, including 663 students from all faculties of the University. Results showed that 638 (95.8%) of students consider mental health an important aspect of the University community, but 423 (63.5%) express concerns about students' hesitation to be involved in discussions related to mental health. Significant responses were obtained regarding students' past experiences during their academic life. Specifically, 571 (85.7%) had experienced anxiety, 515 (77.3%) depression, and 623 (93.5%) tension. Additionally, 520 (78.1%) reported decreased concentration, 63 (9.5%) faced substance abuse, and 563 (84.5%) experienced headaches and appetite loss associated with academic stress. Concerningly, 409 (61.4%) never consulted with a professional, 136 (20.4%) felt isolated, and 393 (59%) believe that professors have little awareness of students' mental health.
In conclusion, it is essential to highlight the importance of creating specific strategies to foster a supportive academic environment, incorporating preventive activities to protect students' mental health, proposing measures for intervention and prevention of both psychological and physical health issues, developing a university guidebook to support student mental health, and establishing an active university counseling center.
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