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 handful improved both mental health and health behaviours. Programs focused on improving sleep showed the most consistent benefits. The research highlights an urgent need for better-designed, multi-pronged health promotion strategies on campus. For universities, the message is clear – investing in smarter, targeted wellbeing initiatives, especially focused around improving sleep, could be key to boosting student performance and retention.
Citation: Streram, S., Burrows, T., Duncan, M.J. et al. Health behaviour interventions to improve mental health outcomes for students in the university setting: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. International Journal of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, Volume 22, 2025. (link)
