As college students, the thought of dropping out of school often conjures up images of failure and disappointment. But this doesn’t have to be the case. While many factors could lead a student to drop out – financial, academic, and personal – a key contributor can be mental health.
Who is to blame for a student’s mental health decline? How much responsibility should be placed on universities to ensure their students’ mental well-being amidst a global pandemic?
In this blog post, we’ll explore who is really to blame for student dropouts due to mental health issues and discuss how universities can better support their students.
College Dropout Statistics in the United States
Mental health issues are one of the leading causes of why college students drop out in the United States. According to a survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of college students with mental health problems have dropped out or seriously considered dropping out of their studies.
Other surveys have shown that between 33-44% of students say they had mental health concerns that affected their academic performance.
There are a few other statistics related to college dropouts in the US as well. For instance, nearly a quarter (24%) of first-year students do not return for their second year, and between 2015 and 2020, the average dropout rate for first-year, full-time students was 24.3%.
Overall, it’s clear that mental health is one factor contributing to the high college dropout rate in the US.
Mental Reasons to Drop Out of College
There are several mental health-related reasons why a student might decide to drop out of college. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most prevalent ones:
Stress & Anxiety
College can be a stressful time for students. From exams and deadlines to social pressures and financial worries, many things can add up and take an emotional toll.
For students who already struggle with anxiety, the pressure of college can become overwhelming. It might make them feel like they cannot cope with the demands of college life, and they may decide to drop out as a result.
Depression & Isolation
Depression is one of the most common and severe mental health issues among college students, and it can cause them to feel isolated, lonely, and unmotivated.
A student who is struggling with depression may find college life to be too lonely and isolating. It can lead them to lose interest in their studies and ultimately drop out of college.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is another mental health problem that can lead to college dropouts. In addition, students may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress, depression, and anxiety.
Such a bad habit can lead to decreased academic performance, missed classes, and failed exams – which could ultimately lead to dropping out of college.
Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation can also be a factor in college dropouts. When students are sleep deprived, it can lead to cognitive impairment, decreased focus, and an overall decrease in academic performance.
This sleep disorder can make college life unbearable for some students, making them consider dropping out.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are another mental health issue that can lead to college dropouts. Students with eating disorders may experience severe weight loss, fatigue, and an inability to concentrate – all of which can detract from their studies and lead them to consider dropping out.
Panic Attacks
Finally, students who suffer from panic attacks may find college life too overwhelming. The anxiety and fear associated with this disorder can make it difficult for them to concentrate on their studies and eventually lead them to drop out.
These are just some of the mental health-related reasons why students decide to drop out of college. Therefore, universities need to recognize these issues and provide resources and support for students who may be struggling.
How to Deal with Dropping Out due to Mental Health Issues
If you are really considering dropping out of college due to mental health issues, it is important to remember that there are other options available.
Here are some tips for dealing with college dropouts due to mental health:
- Talk to a professional – Consider talking to a mental health professional who can provide support and guidance. Such a person can help you develop coping strategies that can make it easier to stay in college and manage your mental health issues.
- Take a break – If possible, take a break from college and give yourself time to focus on your mental health. For example, take a semester off to focus on yourself and your mental well-being.
- Reach out for support – Connect with family, friends, and other loved ones who can provide emotional support. Healthy relationships can be an important part of managing mental health issues.
- Switch to part-time – Consider switching to a part-time course load if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Such an arrangement would allow you to focus on your mental health while progressing in your studies.
- Think about taking a gap year – Taking a gap year can provide much-needed time to focus on your mental health and well-being. During this time, you can explore different careers and participate in activities that give you a sense of purpose.
- Engage in self-care – Taking time for yourself is important for managing mental health issues. Ensure you’re taking care of your physical and emotional needs by getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and engaging in stress-relief activities.
- Reach out to university support services – Reach out to university support services such as counseling, disability, and academic advisors. Such people can provide guidance and resources to help you stay in college and manage your mental health.
The decision to drop out of college due to mental health issues can be difficult, and it’s important to explore all of your options before making a final decision. However, it is also important to understand that you are not alone and that there are many resources available to help.
Bottom Line
Who’s to blame for mental health issues leading to college dropouts? The answer is complex, and there are often multiple factors at play.
Ultimately, universities need to provide the necessary resources and support for students who are struggling with mental health issues. It can help ensure that college students have access to all the necessary resources they need to succeed academically and personally.
Students struggling with mental health issues should explore all of their options before deciding to drop out of college. Taking a break, talking to professionals, and engaging in self-care are all important strategies for improving your mental state.
With the right support and guidance, students can succeed in college while managing their mental health.
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