College Student Mental Health in 2020

Student mental health is being negatively impacted by the added stressors of 2020. 
College students face an ever-changing educational landscape due to the COVID-19 
pandemic. Due to COVID’s impact on a variety of factors involved in their education, 
students are more stressed, anxious, and depressed. This is a life stage that is 
supposed to be focused on learning and growing as an adult, but the unique challenges 
of this time mean students aren’t able to access those ideal experiences the way 
they used to. 

What New Challenges Are Students Facing?
COVID-19
The fear of COVID-19 stretches over every college and university in the world. 
Students are being impacted by their fear of contracting the virus. Many students 
have had to complete mandatory quarantines as they enter their universities. A time 
that is supposed to be filled with opportunity, new friends, and adventure now has 
them stuck inside. 

Online School
While some versions of virtual learning have existed for several years, it has often 
only been used for a portion of a student’s education. Student mental health is now 
being impacted by the complete transition to 100% virtual learning. Every student 
learns differently, and for some, in-person classes have always been the best option. 
Now, with the option removed, some students are struggling in their new, virtual 
learning environments.

Housing
Many students depend on university housing during the school year. For students who 
go to school out of state, this is their only option. Some universities have opted to 
send their students home for the remainder of the school year, which is having a huge 
impact on their mental health.

Financial Challenges
For some, the only way they can afford school is to work and attend classes at the 
same time. Many students have lost their jobs due to the pandemic, making it unclear 
how they will pay for college. These financial challenges are creating additional 
stress and uncertainty for students.