From a distance, college life feels like it’s the best. You get to embrace independence, soak in as much knowledge as you can, and attend the coolest parties. But this picture-perfect idea is rarely the case in real life. When you look at the statistics, the majority of Australia’s uni students aren’t in the best mental state. Most of them struggle with depression. If you are a student, it’s essential to be aware of this grim reality of young adulthood. Here are some of the possible triggers of college depression:
Homesickness
Leaving home is exciting for a lot of young people because it means being independent and avoiding family drama. But the thrill only lasts for a while. Sooner or later, homesickness will kick in. It’s the same gloomy experience you had when you moved out of state as a child. Only this time, you’re not longing for your middle-school friends. You’ll crave your mom’s pancakes, the familiarity of your bedroom, and just the company of your siblings. You miss these things so much that even though you’ll be home during the holidays, it feels like an eternity. The best way to relieve homesickness is to make your new apartment feel like home. Take your precious possessions with you when you move in. For instance, if you have a quirky lounge chair that reminds you of your bedroom, bring it with you. If you’re planning to move a lot of furniture to maximize your space, it’s best to work with interstate removalists. These experts can help you secure your most fragile items.
Academic Pressure
The pressure to excel academically is fierce in high school. But when you reach college, the tension takes a whole new level because you’re more aware that your performance can significantly affect your future career. At the same time, there’s pressure coming from the learning environment. Your professors in college might be less forgiving, and your classmates might be more competitive. The struggle can be more bearable if you focus on two things: being organized and having enough alone time. The former involves using to-do lists or planners. These can give you a sense of being on top of things. The latter, on the other hand, entails eating healthy food, working out, and going out with friends occasionally. Once you’re refreshed, you’re prepared to tackle your academic requirements.
Self-esteem Issues
It seems like you have everything figured out before entering college. You’re going to your dream school. You’ll study well and graduate with honors. But halfway through the semester, a lot of students realize that college is a lot harder than they thought. So they become frustrated with their situation and disappointed in themselves. They eventually start to question their capabilities and worth. It’s important to remind yourself of your identity when you’re at your lowest point. Remember that your worth doesn’t depend on the number of exams you ace (or fail) or the professors who like you; you’re valuable because you are a person with dignity.
In the end, college depression is a real phenomenon. If you’re struggling with negative thoughts or emotions, talk to a trusted friend or a school counselor. Prioritize your mental health.
