Report overview
Key Findings
BestColleges' survey research initiative continues with this new report on college student mental health. In April and May 2022, 1,000 college students residing in the U.S. participated in our study. They ranged in age from 18-26 and were enrolled in associate and bachelor's degree programs at the time of the survey. Our findings of their perceptions and concerns are presented in three categories: student mental health and wellness, school- sponsored mental health support services, and the continuing impact of COVID-19.
- Forty-six percent of college students said their mental health status was fair or poor; less than one-quarter (22%) said their mental health was very good or excellent.
- Many students reported experiencing mental health symptoms most days during the past year, including stress (66%), anxiety (54%), and self-doubt (50%).
- Over half of all students (51%) agreed that their mental health has worsened during their time in college, including 58% of LGBTQ+ students.
- Perceived expense and lack of insurance coverage (37%) and not being comfortable taking the initiative to seek assistance (35%) were the two biggest barriers to receiving mental health support for students who rated their mental health status as fair or poor.
- An overwhelming majority (81%) of college students were aware that their school provides mental health assistance programs and services.
- Of the 46% of students who rated their mental health status as fair or poor, only 20% have sought assistance through their school.
- Students want their schools to schedule mental health days in the academic calendar (42%), acknowledge student mental health needs (35%), add wellness activities and programming (32%), and provide life skills classes (30%).
- Sixty-six percent of college students have had their education impacted or disrupted by the pandemic, including 61% who experienced campus closures.
- Stressors having the biggest negative impact on student mental health were reported to be academic pressure (52%), current events (38%), and financial difficulties (37%).
- About 1 in 5 college students dealt with the death of a loved one in the past year.