Search
Close this search box.
0

Stress in College Students

According to the American Psychological Association in 2024 stress levels among K-12 students are alarmingly high, with seven out of ten U.S. teens (ages 13-17) identifying anxiety or depression as major issues among their peers. In school, 75% of high school students report experiencing boredom, anger, sadness, fear, or stress. On a 10-point scale, where adult stress averages 3.8, American teens rate their stress at 5.8. Additionally, three-quarters of high school students and half of middle schoolers consistently feel stressed due to schoolwork.

stressed college students

College Students Face Even Greater Challenges

  • 40% of U.S. college students feel inadequately rested most days.
  • 25% of students admit that lack of sleep negatively impacts their academic performance, resulting in lower grades or missed deadlines.
  • Students who sleep six or fewer hours a night have lower GPAs compared to those who get eight or more hours of sleep.
  • 45% of American college students report experiencing "more than average stress."
  • Only 9% of students report "no stress" or "less than average stress."
  • In the U.K., 80% of university students report stress and anxiety.
  • 45% of U.K. students feel stressed by their coursework.

Addressing Student Stress

Understanding the prevalence and causes of student stress is crucial for educators, administrators, and parents. By identifying stress factors and their impact, stakeholders can develop strategies to support students better. Since no one can avoid stress, and the prevalence is so high, students are encouraged to take one of the scientifically validated online stress assessments available at The American Institute of Stress website; Either the Stress Mastery Questionnaire (SMQ) or the Rosch Stress Profiler (RSP).

Awareness and proactive measures can help alleviate some of the pressures students face, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to succeed both academically and personally.

Additional Articles