Unlocking student mental health: How healthy habits can boost academic success
Being a student today is not just about attending classes and doing homework. With the pressure to perform well academically, manage social relationships and plan for the future, many students find themselves feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
The mental health of students is a crucial issue that needs attention.
Balancing studies with personal life can be challenging, and without proper support, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Understanding the importance of mental health and finding ways to cope with these pressures can help students lead happier and more successful lives.
University life is an exciting journey filled with new experiences and opportunities but it also brings challenges that can impact students’ mental health.
Being away from home, making new friends, managing finances, and adjusting to a different academic environment can all contribute to stress and anxiety.
According to Discovery Health Medical Scheme claims data, there has been a staggering 120% increase in mental health conditions among young people aged 18-24 from 2012 to 2022.
This is a stark contrast to the 44% average increase in older age groups.
Recognising the warning signs of mental health issues is crucial for students. These signs can include persistent sadness, overwhelming stress, changes in eating or sleeping habits, withdrawal from social activities, and difficulty concentrating.
If these symptoms persist, it may be time to seek help.
Adopting healthy habits can play a significant role in protecting and improving mental health. Here’s how:
Healthy eating: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can improve mood and energy levels. Avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar can help stabilise mood swings.
Regular exercise: Physical activity can improve brain health, help to manage weight, improve short and long-term physical health and well-being, and improve sleep as well as the ability to do everyday activities.
Physical activity has also been associated with the prevention and reduction of the incidence of depression.
For example, increasing steps from 5 000 one day a week to 10 000 steps one day a week can significantly reduce incidences of depression among women, according to a “ Physical Activity and the Prevention of Depression: A Longitudinal Analysis of a South African Database” study, conducted by Discovery Vitality, with researchers from the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health and the University of Cape Town.
Financial savvy: Financial well-being; the reality is that financial constraints can affect a student’s confidence and studies. Managing an allowance and budget can be a valuable and sometimes tough learning experience for students.
Students will need to make sure their allowance covers all their needs each month.
Money can create stress and affect all aspects of life, which is why students must learn how to budget, spend and save responsibly.
Learning to budget and manage finances can reduce stress related to money. Understanding how to live within one’s means can prevent financial stress from impacting mental health.
According to Dr Noluthando Nematswerani, Chief Clinical Officer for Discovery Health, stresses the importance of strong support systems and coping skills during the transition to university life.
Without these, students may be at risk of developing mental disorders.
The pressures of university life, such as loneliness, academic strain, and social adjustment, can bring out latent mental health conditions or worsen existing ones.
Globally, about 21% of university students have major depressive disorder, according to a World Health Organization study. In South Africa, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reports that one in four university students has a mental health condition.
The demands of university life, combined with external pressures like social media and local challenges such as load shedding can have a profound impact on students’ mental health.
Many students do not talk about their struggles until a crisis arises. SADAG regularly receives calls from students experiencing severe mental distress.
What can be done?
Build a support network: Encourage students to stay connected with family and friends and seek support from campus mental health services. Peer support groups can also provide a sense of community and understanding.
Develop coping skills: Stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help manage anxiety. Encourage students to maintain a balanced lifestyle and set realistic academic and personal goals.
Seek professional help: If symptoms of depression or anxiety persist, seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial. Universities often offer counselling services that are easily accessible to students.
There is still a stigma around seeking help for mental health issues, but it’s important to remember that getting mental health support is just as crucial as seeing a doctor for a physical condition.
Nematswerani, emphasised the importance of students reaching out for help if they are struggling with mental distress.
Most universities offer free counselling services, available both in person and over the phone.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) provides numerous online resources, dedicated helplines for various tertiary institutions, and peer support groups. Discovery Health Medical Scheme (DHMS) members can also access mental health support through their benefits.
In 2023, DHMS introduced South Africa’s first funded digital therapeutics (DTx) for members aged 18 and older who have symptoms of depression.
This innovative tool, a collaboration with SilverCloud® by Amwell®, offers internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT). Prescribed by a GP, psychologist, or psychiatrist, this digital mental health benefit is funded from the scheme’s risk pool.
Research shows that iCBT is as effective as face-to-face Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for treating depression and anxiety. The digital platform allows members to access care 24/7, regardless of their location.
The treatment can be personalised to enhance effectiveness, and real-time data shared with healthcare providers enables them to monitor progress and provide continuous support.