Mental Health Issues and Concerns as a College Student Starting a New Year.

If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed, Anxious, or Alone — You’re Not Broken.

The start of a new college year is exciting: new classes, new friends, and a new chance to shape

your future. But behind the energy and opportunity, many students quietly struggle with anxiety,

stress, and self-doubt.

You are not alone. Studies show nearly 1 in 3 college students meets criteria for a mental

health disorder with depression and anxiety leading the way.

Transitioning into a demanding, high-pressure environment can amplify stress, but with the right strategies, you can protect your mental health and turn this year into a season of resilience and growth.

At PRX Wellness, we believe in optimization, recovery, transformation, and empowerment.

This article explores the hidden stressors students face, and the evidence-based steps that can help you thrive.

The Hidden Challenges of College Life

1. Academic Pressure-Heavy workloads and the fear of failure can create constant stress. Perfectionism often

fuels burnout before midterms even arrive.

2. Social Adjustment-Finding your place among thousands of students is not easy. Loneliness, relationship

struggles, or roommate conflicts are common.

3. Financial Stress-Tuition, rent, and living expenses weigh heavily on students. Financial strain is strongly linked to increased risk of depression and anxiety.

4. Identity Development-College is about more than academics. Many students struggle with identity, values, and purpose which can feel overwhelming.

5. Sleep Disruption-Irregular schedules, late-night study sessions, and excessive caffeine interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate mood and focus.

According to a global study in The Lancet Psychiatry, untreated mental health struggles during

university years are tied to poorer academic performance and lower graduation rates (Auerbach

et al., 2018). Left unchecked, these stressors can derail progress.

Research-Backed Strategies to Protect Your Mental Health

1. Treat Sleep Like a Non-Negotiable -Seven to nine hours of sleep each night isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. Consistent sleep improves memory, focus, and emotional resilience.

2. Move Your Body Daily - Exercise is a natural antidepressant. Even 20 minutes of walking, running, or lifting weights can decrease stress and increase concentration.

3. Build Your Circle Early - Healthy social connections are protective. Join a club, volunteer, or form study groups. Don’t wait until you feel isolated to reach out.

4. Practice Stress-Reduction Skills - Mindfulness, meditation, or simple breathing techniques can quickly calm your nervous system. Short, frequent breaks are more effective than waiting until you’re burned out.

5. Recognize the Warning Signs - Persistent sadness, irritability, lack of motivation, or unhealthy coping behaviors (like substance use) are signals to seek help. Early support makes a difference.

6. Use Campus and Telehealth Services - Most universities offer counseling services, but telehealth expands access even further.

At PRX Wellness, students can connect with licensed professionals confidentially, without leaving their dorm room.

The Bottom Line: Resilience Is Built, Not Born

College will test you. But resilience is not about being untouched by stress — it’s about learning

how to adapt, recover, and grow stronger.

A recent study in Nature Mental Health confirms that resilience is a skill that can be cultivated

through intentional practice, not something you either have or don’t. Every challenge you face is a chance to strengthen that skill.

A Better Path Exists — And You Can Build It

At PRX Wellness, we help students transform stress into strength. Our care model is built on:

• Optimization of mental and physical health habits

• Recovery from setbacks and struggles

• Transformation into stronger, more resilient versions of yourself

• Empowerment to take ownership of your health and future

If you’re ready to protect your mental health and build a foundation for success, we invite you to

explore a new way forward.

Visit https://www.PRXWellness.com to schedule a confidential telehealth visit today.