1. Mental health challenges impacting academic performance: Anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health issues significantly impair a student's ability to focus, attend classes, complete assignments, and perform well academically. This isn't just about absences; it impacts cognitive function and motivation.
2. Financial insecurity and its consequences: The high cost of tuition, housing, books, and living expenses creates significant stress and can lead to students working excessive hours, compromising their studies, or having to drop out altogether. Financial worries directly impact concentration and academic success.
While other issues like lack of effective study skills, inadequate academic preparation from high school, and difficulties accessing academic support services are also prevalent, the intertwined effects of mental health and financial insecurity often exacerbate other academic challenges and frequently emerge as the most significant roadblocks to success.