Student Knowledge of Signs, Risk Factors, and Resources for Depression, Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, and Other Mental Health Problems on Campus

A mixed methods study sought to assess knowledge of the signs, risk factors, and campus services available for mental health disorders. A survey was completed by 831 participants at a college of approximately 9,000 students in the northeastern region of the United States. Students evidenced a need for more education about mental health problems on the college campus. Respondents felt more knowledgeable about depression than about anxiety and sleep disorders. Over half of the respondents were unable to identify specific mental health problems that they were aware of. Upperclassmen had a keener awareness of risk factors for anxiety and sophomores were in the greatest danger of failing to recognize risk factors for anxiety. Females consistently recognized signs and risk factors for anxiety, sleep disorders, and depression more frequently than males. Support groups, courses, and workshops on managing relationships, transition to college, and other mental health issues are recommended to increase awareness of mental health needs and services. Convenient access to counseling and fitness activities are encouraged