According to the ADAA, college students at risk for test anxiety are likely to fear failure, to be less prepared and have a poor test history. They may experience physical, emotional and cognitive behavioral symptoms, such as excessive sweating, feelings of helplessness and difficulty concentrating. Many institutions help students by educating them about test anxiety. Gwynett-Mercy College instructs students to combat test anxiety by developing good study habits, learning relaxation techniques and getting enough sleep.
The ADAA indicates that a high percentage of students with mental health issues withdraw from college for that reason. In a recent study reported by The National Institute for Mental Health, thirty percent of college students are so depressed it interferes with normal functioning. Depression and anxiety not only impact academic performance, but increase the chances of alcohol abuse and other risky behaviors. College students struggling with depression often lack the energy to attend class or lack desire to participate in social activities. Students affected by anxiety may feel stressed about incomplete assignments or excessively worried about social relationships.
Suicide is one of the top causes of death in college students. The document "What You Need to Know about College Students and Suicide" states that not everyone who is depressed will try to commit suicide, but nearly everyone who commits suicide is depressed. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression greatly increases the risk for suicide. Research suggests that six percent of college students seriously consider suicide and one percent attempt suicide. Faculty, staff and other students can help prevent suicide by recognizing the symptoms of depression and encouraging students to get treatment.
Getting counseling and support to help with depression and anxiety is the first step to coping with these mental health issues. Colleges provide counseling services to students at low or no cost through on-campus counseling centers or student health centers. However, a study published on InsideHigherEd.com indicates that over 30 percent of college students do not know how to access counseling services or feel their institution is not supportive of their mental health issues. Colleges recognize the need to educate students on available services and train faculty and staff to recognize students at risk.