Mental Health

University students are increasingly grappling with mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, often exacerbated by academic pressures and lifestyle changes. This research recognises the potential of physical activity as a mitigating factor and found a strong link between higher physical activity levels and improved mental health outcomes – including lower levels of anxiety/depression, and […]

University students face elevated stress levels and are prone to engaging in health risk behaviours such as poor diet, physical inactivity, substance use, and inadequate sleep, all modifiable factors contributing to mental health disorders. A recent systematic review of 22 international studies found that while many health interventions aimed to address these issues, only a […]

University students are at higher risk of mental health issues, influenced by their subjective social status and social contact. This study found that higher perceived status and more social interaction with friends positively impacted mental health and well-being, leading to lower depression and increased well-being. Enhancing social connections and perceived social status can play a […]

University students, often seen as privileged, face significant physical and mental health issues, with a higher prevalence of psychological disorders compared to their community peers. This research on first-year Australian rural university students highlighted common health issues such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Despite most students having adequate access to medical and support services, concerns […]

Both face-to-face and online courses improve mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and increase intentions to help others with depressive symptoms. Read Deena Ashoorian, Kristy-Lee Albrecht, Casey Baxter, Erin Giftakis, Rhonda Clifford, Jayden Greenwell-Barnden and Tricia Wylde’s full research article Evaluation of Mental Health First Aid skills in an Australian university population here. Read Kathy S Bond, Anthony F Jorm, Betty A Kitchener and Nicola J Reavley’s […]

University students experience high rates of depression and anxiety, with levels higher than those of U.S. students. Risk factors include financial stress, lack of support, first-year status, body image issues, and study hours, with domestic students being more affected than international students. Depressive symptoms and stress were linked to unhealthy behaviours, such as skipping breakfast […]

University students face a heightened risk of psychological distress and mental health issues. This research identifies six coursework elements that significantly predict students’ well-being, accounting for more variance than financial or employment worries. The findings aim to help educators design curricula that mitigate distress and promote mental well-being. Larcombe, W., Baik, C., & Finch, S., […]

This research compares the mental health of undergraduate university students with their peers from ages 15 to 21. It concludes that students generally have better mental health, partly due to better parental mental health and socio-economic status. However, students’ mental health tends to decline just before major academic transitions, highlighting the importance of targeted mental […]

University students often face high rates of mental health issues, but many delay or avoid seeking help. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training on campus has been associated with a high level of knowledge, confidence, and application of mental health support skills among students and staff. This training has positively impacted their ability to assist […]

Sport can position itself nationally as a leader in student well being. Download Mr. Chris Massey’s presentation.