A survey of 1,000 university students and graduates has revealed that 43% frequently battled anxiety during their studies, with concerns ranging from academic failure to post-graduation pressures.
A recent survey of 1,000 current and former university students has revealed that four in 10 students frequently felt anxious during their university years. Fears of failing or dropping out, difficulties integrating with peers, and the uncertainty of life after graduation were top concerns.
The study highlighted that more than half of students had moments of doubt about whether to continue their educational journey. Key stress points included their first and final years at university, with the second term proving particularly challenging.
Dr. Naveen Puri, Medical Director at Bupa, stated: “Starting university comes with many worries and fears. However, these often become more pronounced later, once the excitement of the first term has worn off, and the demands of the second term take over.”
He added: “Many people assume students have it easy – that this is the best time of their lives. But for some, university can be incredibly stressful. They’re managing coursework, finances, or simply adjusting to being away from home.”
The findings coincide with the launch of Bupa’s new health subscription service. It revealed that 23% of students often or always felt depressed at university, while half reported that the challenges of their studies negatively impacted their mental well-being.
Stress and worry also led to behavioural changes, with 39% of students consuming more junk food, 34% missing lectures, and many others avoiding social activities or failing to meet deadlines. Yet, 30% of students confessed they didn’t know where to seek help.
Kali Kuszyk-Whittall, a 20 year old second-year student, spent a year developing coping strategies after suffering from severe anxiety during her first year at university. She experienced up to 10 panic attacks a day due to “work overload”, leaving her feeling overwhelmed.
Initially, Kali found her first term at Birmingham City University “exciting,” as she balanced studying, making new friends, and adjusting to her new environment. However, by the second term, she admits she underestimated the time and effort required for her degree.
Juggling her academic responsibilities with a part-time job became too much, leading to debilitating panic attacks. “It was a big change, going from being at home to moving into a completely new environment,” she shared. “At first, I didn’t feel like I really understood the work, and doubt quickly crept in.”
Kali sought help from her GP and a university therapist, receiving 10 sessions of counselling from each. She also developed her own strategies to manage panic attacks, such as running cold water over her wrists, going for walks, and watching TV.
Kali took a four-month break to prioritise her mental health before beginning to make positive strides. Nearly one year on, Kali reflects on her progress: “It’s definitely not perfect, but it’s manageable, and I’m slowly getting back to feeling like myself,” she remarked. She now manages to attend lectures for several hours each day.
Meanwhile, individuals seeking healthcare face hurdles such as the worry of overreacting (35%), a deficiency of time (34%), and apprehensions about not being taken seriously (32%).
Dr. Puri stated: “For many students, seeking help for physical or mental health problems can be daunting, especially for those who have previously relied on their parents to handle medical issues.
“However, it’s vital for students to receive the support they need as they navigate their studies.”
