mental health and stress essay

Science and research

Stress and our mental health – what is the impact & how can we tackle it?

by MQ Mental Health | 16 May 2020

Stress is something everyone experiences. Despite being unpleasant, stress in itself is not an illness. But there are connections between stress and mental health conditions including  depression ,  anxiety , psychosis and  post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) .

Research into stress - its causes, effects on the body and its links to mental health - is vital. The more we understand stress, the better we can tackle it.

In this blog, we explore the science of stress and mental health. We look at how research is transforming what we know, providing hope for new treatments as well as showing effective ways to cope with stress in our everyday lives.

Fight or flight

Stress causes physical changes in the body. It increases heart rate and breathing. Muscles tense. Short-term memory becomes more effective. This stress response has evolved to keep us safe, as it prepares the body for ‘fight or flight’ when we sense danger. Research has also shown that thinking skills improve as stress increases. So, in short bursts, stress can be a good thing. It can help us prepare for a sports match, job interview or exam. Usually, after a stressful event, the body returns to its normal state.

Long-term stress

Many situations can cause a stress response in the body. Changes at work, illness, accidents, problems with relationships, family, money or housing can all cause stress. Even seemingly small daily hassles like someone pushing in a queue can make us feel stressed. What links all these situations is that we’re unable to predict and control what is happening to us, and so our body goes into a state of increased alertness. And these events can happen all the time - triggering the body’s stress response over and over again.

When the stress response becomes prolonged (chronic), it has a very different effect to the short bursts that enhance the body’s abilities. In many cases, the system controlling the stress response is no longer able to return to its normal state. Attention, memory, and the way we deal with emotions are negatively impacted. This long-term stress can contribute to both physical and mental illness through effects on the heart, immune and metabolic functions, and hormones acting on the brain.

Some of the emotional and behavioural symptoms of stress overlap with those of mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. This can make it hard to distinguish where one begins and the other ends, or which came first. Someone who is stressed may feel worried, down, unable to concentrate or make decisions, irritable and angry.

The biology of mental health and stress

Chronic stress increases the risk of developing depression and anxiety in some people. The precise mechanisms of how stress is linked to mental ill-health are being uncovered.

Scientists found that the earliest response to stress happens in the brain within seconds of perceiving a ‘stressor’. Chemicals which signal between nerve cells (neurotransmitters) are released. These include serotonin and adrenaline. Following this, stress hormones are released, which particularly affect areas of the brain key for memory and regulating emotions. Repeated stress changes how well these systems are able to control the stress response.

Researchers are also investigating how these systems are involved in anxiety and depression, suggesting a biochemical link between stress and mental illness. Recent studies have shown that long-term stress can change the structure of the brain, especially in areas supporting learning and memory. It can affect both nerve cells (grey matter) and the connections between them (white matter). It is possible these changes, along with other factors, can increase the likelihood of developing mental illness.

The immune system

Another link between stress and mental health is the immune system. During the stress response, the immune system is activated, helping to keep us safe. But chronic stress and prolonged activation of the immune system could negatively affect how the brain functions.

A prolonged activation of the immune system is also linked to depression. Researchers are working to understand how this activation can lead to depression and other types of mental illness in some people. About 30% of people with depression have increased immune activity in the body. Researchers are also undertaking clinical trials to find out if anti-inflammatory drugs might be able to help people with this kind of depression. Find out more about stress, the immune system and depression  in our podcast .

Stress and PTSD

In some cases, short-term stress can also lead to a mental health condition. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experience of an extremely traumatic or stressful event. Someone affected may experience vivid flashbacks or nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. The exact causes of the condition are not clear - though some of the risk factors are understood.

State-of-the-art brain scanning has shown that, again, the areas of the brain particularly involved are the hippocampus and the amygdala. There is some evidence that the neurotransmitters and hormones involved in the normal stress response may become disrupted during and after the traumatic event. Research has also shown that the amygdala, which processes fear, is hyperactive in people with PTSD, perhaps creating a kind of “false alarm”.

Continued research offers the promise of new treatments for PTSD in the future.

Hope for the future

A key area for research is to understand why some people are much more affected by stress than others. A vast amount of research shows that genetics, early life events, and personality and social factors all have a role to play.

Understanding the biology of stress and its effects means that researchers can work towards new treatments. It could also help predict who is at risk of developing a mental health condition, and uncover the best time to intervene to help prevent ill-health later on.

Ways to help

There are lots of ways to help anyone who is stressed. The first advice is to try and identify the cause of stress and tackle it. Avoiding the problem may make it worse. Often it isn’t possible to change a situation and prevent stress. But, there are many ways to help control it, and stress management may be effective in improving health .

The NHS also has advice on different ways to beat stress, from exercise, to mindfulness and breathing exercises - all of which have been shown to help.  Visit their site  for more information.

If you’re looking for direct advice or help, our  support section  includes links to organisations that can help. There is also more information on  specific conditions , including depression, anxiety and PTSD.

Enjoying this insight? Want to see more like it?

Movement Is Stillness: Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

by Juliette Burton | 14/5/24 | Personal stories

This Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, the theme is Movement for Mental Health. In this article, MQ Ambassador, athlete, LGBTQ advocate and author Amazin LeThi shares with our staff writer how movement has been an integral part of her mental health journey.   Moving...

Movement Is Hope: Mental Health Awareness Week 2024

by Juliette Burton | 13/5/24 | Latest news and opinion , Personal stories

This Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, the theme is Movement for Mental Health. In this article, MQ staff member Juliette Burton (pictured above) explains why her mental health lived experience has led to her movement – running to raise money for mental health...

MQ named one of the best places to work by The Sunday Times

by Bryony Doughty | 10/5/24 | Uncategorized

It is testament to the positive culture created by the senior leadership team at MQ, and a wonderful way to honour our late CEO Lea Milligan.

View personal stories

Stay Updated

Mental health transformation, delivered straight to your inbox., your privacy is important to us..

• Essay Editor

Mental Health Essay

Introduction

Mental health, often overshadowed by its physical counterpart, is an intricate and essential aspect of human existence. It envelops our emotions, psychological state, and social well-being, shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions. With the complexities of modern life—constant connectivity, societal pressures, personal expectations, and the frenzied pace of technological advancements—mental well-being has become increasingly paramount. Historically, conversations around this topic have been hushed, shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. However, as the curtains of misconception slowly lift, we find ourselves in an era where discussions about mental health are not only welcomed but are also seen as vital. Recognizing and addressing the nuances of our mental state is not merely about managing disorders; it's about understanding the essence of who we are, how we process the world around us, and how we navigate the myriad challenges thrown our way. This essay aims to delve deep into the realm of mental health, shedding light on its importance, the potential consequences of neglect, and the spectrum of mental disorders that many face in silence.

Importance of Mental Health

Mental health plays a pivotal role in determining how individuals think, feel, and act. It influences our decision-making processes, stress management techniques, interpersonal relationships, and even our physical health. A well-tuned mental state boosts productivity, creativity, and the intrinsic sense of self-worth, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling life.

Negative Impact of Mental Health

Neglecting mental health, on the other hand, can lead to severe consequences. Reduced productivity, strained relationships, substance abuse, physical health issues like heart diseases, and even reduced life expectancy are just some of the repercussions of poor mental health. It not only affects the individual in question but also has a ripple effect on their community, workplace, and family.

Mental Disorders: Types and Prevalence

Mental disorders are varied and can range from anxiety and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia.

• Depression: Characterized by persistent sadness, lack of interest in activities, and fatigue.
• Anxiety Disorders: Encompass conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and specific phobias.
• Schizophrenia: A complex disorder affecting a person's ability to think, feel, and behave clearly.

The prevalence of these disorders has been on the rise, underscoring the need for comprehensive mental health initiatives and awareness campaigns.

Understanding Mental Health and Its Importance

Mental health is not merely the absence of disorders but encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Recognizing the signs of deteriorating mental health, like prolonged sadness, extreme mood fluctuations, or social withdrawal, is crucial. Understanding stems from awareness and education. Societal stigmas surrounding mental health have often deterred individuals from seeking help. Breaking these barriers, fostering open conversations, and ensuring access to mental health care are imperative steps.

Conclusion: Mental Health

Mental health, undeniably, is as significant as physical health, if not more. In an era where the stressors are myriad, from societal pressures to personal challenges, mental resilience and well-being are essential. Investing time and resources into mental health initiatives, and more importantly, nurturing a society that understands, respects, and prioritizes mental health is the need of the hour.

• World Leaders: Several influential personalities, from celebrities to sports stars, have openly discussed their mental health challenges, shedding light on the universality of these issues and the importance of addressing them.
• Workplaces: Progressive organizations are now incorporating mental health programs, recognizing the tangible benefits of a mentally healthy workforce, from increased productivity to enhanced creativity.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges, witnessing the effects of stress and other mental health issues on students, are increasingly integrating counseling services and mental health education in their curriculum.

In weaving through the intricate tapestry of mental health, it becomes evident that it's an area that requires collective attention, understanding, and action.

  Short Essay about Mental Health

Mental health, an integral facet of human well-being, shapes our emotions, decisions, and daily interactions. Just as one would care for a sprained ankle or a fever, our minds too require attention and nurture. In today's bustling world, mental well-being is often put on the back burner, overshadowed by the immediate demands of life. Yet, its impact is pervasive, influencing our productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Sadly, mental health issues have long been stigmatized, seen as a sign of weakness or dismissed as mere mood swings. However, they are as real and significant as any physical ailment. From anxiety to depression, these disorders have touched countless lives, often in silence due to societal taboos.

But change is on the horizon. As awareness grows, conversations are shifting from hushed whispers to open discussions, fostering understanding and support. Institutions, workplaces, and communities are increasingly acknowledging the importance of mental health, implementing programs, and offering resources.

In conclusion, mental health is not a peripheral concern but a central one, crucial to our holistic well-being. It's high time we prioritize it, eliminating stigma and fostering an environment where everyone feels supported in their mental health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the primary focus of a mental health essay?

Answer: The primary focus of a mental health essay is to delve into the intricacies of mental well-being, its significance in our daily lives, the various challenges people face, and the broader societal implications. It aims to shed light on both the psychological and emotional aspects of mental health, often emphasizing the importance of understanding, empathy, and proactive care.

• How can writing an essay on mental health help raise awareness about its importance?

Answer: Writing an essay on mental health can effectively articulate the nuances and complexities of the topic, making it more accessible to a wider audience. By presenting facts, personal anecdotes, and research, the essay can demystify misconceptions, highlight the prevalence of mental health issues, and underscore the need for destigmatizing discussions around it. An impactful essay can ignite conversations, inspire action, and contribute to a more informed and empathetic society.

• What are some common topics covered in a mental health essay?

Answer: Common topics in a mental health essay might include the definition and importance of mental health, the connection between mental and physical well-being, various mental disorders and their symptoms, societal stigmas and misconceptions, the impact of modern life on mental health, and the significance of therapy and counseling. It may also delve into personal experiences, case studies, and the broader societal implications of neglecting mental health.

Related articles

How to write informative essays.

Informative essays are one of the main types of academic writing students must complete as part of the educational process. While this is a typical assignment in any curriculum, it can be hard to distinguish between different types of essays and how to write them. In this article, we’ll delve into the genre of this essay type, learn the definition of an informative essay, and how to write an informational essay. What is an informative essay? An informative essay is a piece of academic writin ...

Synthesis Essay Examples

A synthesis essay is another piece of academic discourse that students often find difficult to write. This assignment indeed requires a more nuanced approach to writing and performing research. It’s particularly relevant to students taking an AP English Language and Composition exam, so learning how to write a synthesis essay is crucial to getting a high score. This article will explore the definition of a synthesis essay, its functions, and objectives, and provide a tutorial on how to write a ...

How To Write Reflection Essays

How often do you contemplate how the tapestry of your experiences shapes your thoughts? A reflection paper lets you explore that. It's like deep diving into your life’s precious moments, examining how stories, books, events, or even lectures have influenced your views. This type of academic essay integrates a personal perspective, allowing you to openly express your opinions. In this guide, we will delve into the specifics of reflective writing, share some tips, and show some self-reflection es ...

How to Write an Essay in APA Format

There are a few styles of organizing and formatting material in an academic essay. To get high grades it is necessary to learn specific characteristics of each one. After reading this article students are certain to figure out how to write in APA format. What is APA format for an essay? It was the American Psychological Association who offered to use the APA style when formatting articles and academic papers. The specialists described all its aspects in a special Publication Manual, printed i ...

Master the Art of Paraphrasing with This Comprehensive Guide

In academic writing, you often need to process a large number of sources to compile a thorough and credible examination. However, you can’t simply copy and paste all information into your text document. In such instances, paraphrasing becomes essential. In this short article, we’ll define paraphrasing, talk about why it’s important, and provide guidance on how to paraphrase in an essay. What is paraphrasing? Paraphrasing is a technique that involves rewriting the source text in a way that pr ...

MLA Format Essays: A Comprehensive Guide

Finishing an essay is one thing, but formatting it is a completely different affair. There are many style guides out there, so it can be hard to understand the differences between them. Today, you will learn about MLA format writing, what it is, when it’s used, and how to write MLA format essays. What is an MLA Style Essay? An MLA format essay is a piece of writing created in accordance with the MLA Style Handbook. This guide was developed by the Modern Language Association, the leading profe ...

APA or MLA: Choosing the Right Citation Style for Your Paper

When it comes to academic writing, properly citing your sources is crucial. It not only helps you avoid plagiarism but also adds credibility to your work by showing that you've done your research. However, with various citation styles out there, it can be tricky to know which one to use. Two of the most common styles are APA (American Psychological Association) and MLA (Modern Language Association). In this article, we'll take a closer look at the APA vs MLA format to help you decide which is ri ...

What Is Chat GPT?

AI GPT chats have been getting a lot of attention over the last year. Not surprising since this new technology promises to change our future completely. The first and most well-known AI GPT chat software is ChatGPT officially released on November 30, 2022. In this article, we will answer the question “What is Chat GPT?”, explore how it works, and find out where to use the Chat GPT model. Chat GPT: definition As the name implies, ChatGPT is a chatbot that uses generative AI to process input p ...

Under Pressure: An essay on school stress and mental health

Immense pressure built into school isn’t consistent with supporting students’ mental health.

I was in my Psychology class taking notes on anxiety when I felt like I had just read my life story. Mid-assignment, I started shaking and had difficulty continuing my work. My thoughts began to spiral: If I didn't write my notes, I would fail the test. If I failed the test I wouldn’t graduate. If I didn’t graduate I wouldn’t go to college, wouldn’t be accomplished, and soon enough, would have failed at life.

This account from a Kentucky student is just a fraction of the plethora of tales that the subject of mental health in schools is incomplete without. Unfortunately, I can relate, because education is one of the most powerful tools we need to change the world. We all want to be accomplished–but now, the biggest milestone we have is surviving it. 

Throughout America, schools give awards for best attendance, but they come with no recognition of the mental toll it takes to be present in the classroom. Academic accomplishment is presented as the Holy Grail–yet for students, the pursuit of schools' measures of success often feels like pushing ourselves to the breaking point. That leads to losing sight of the connections that make school meaningful. In the United States, almost 1 in 7 kids and teens have a mental health condition, and nearly half go untreated. According to recent studies, in Kentucky alone, at least 16% of children ages 3 to 17 have depression or anxiety. Schools aren't meeting the mental health needs of students, but this problem–as well as the students experiencing it firsthand–isn’t being understood or approached correctly. The immense pressure built into school isn’t consistent with supporting students' mental health.  

Somewhere a student is sitting in detention for interrupting class with excessive fidgeting, talking, and physical movements. For this student, having ADHD becomes a punishable offense; they are seen as unruly and wayward. 

In another school, a student is barred from attending Prom or after-school activities—a common punishment for students with too many unexcused absences. Is this fair for students with depression, who can face challenges gathering up the strength just to get out of bed, much less to have the capacity to attend a school that doesn't accommodate their needs? 

Elsewhere, a student not participating in class or activities because of a sense of hopelessness and lack of energy is written off as lazy, rather than having their specific needs met as a student with Bipolar Disorder. 

And when common conditions such as anxiety and depression remain stigmatized and punished in schools, what about students with experiences that remain deeply misunderstood by the general public? Students with such diagnoses often struggle to find understanding and support within the structure of school. 

More in school support and friendly environments are both pertinent needs for students with diagnosable and treatable mental health conditions, as well as ways of tending to overall student mental well-being. We can start now by enhancing awareness among our peers, the staff, and ourselves. Some research shows that academic-related stress negatively impacts mental health, physical health, and school performance. The pressure doesn’t help.

Today, it is a normalized and regular occurrence for  students to be forced to stand in front of their class, despite being petrified, often unable to utter a full sentence. Anxiety is seen as "stage fright,” to be casually confronted and overcome; the complexities of mental health are continuously overlooked in the school building. Little do they know how that simple act reinforces the idea of feeling worthless and not good enough in that student's mind by subjecting them to all that anxiety and worry. Then, that can spiral into the affirmations from classmates who feel pity for you, the blank stares and whispers, the cackles, and then, their own self-pity. Even after numerous presentations, it never gets better. It's always the same ambiance, the same fear, and the same high expectations that seem improbable to meet. Having encountered this countless times, I can assert that the way we approach mental health in school needs to change.  

I hope that one day in America every student will see school as a place to be heard, and won't look at school as a place where dreams are deferred, where we are destined to be misunderstood. What we need is understanding as the basic foundation of awareness. Knowledge of the existence of mental health conditions, without the ability to discern whether school stress worsens it, makes it powerless. It is only when we have sufficient understanding of a problem that we can begin to acknowledge and fix it. The understanding of whether stress from school exacerbates a student’s mental health challenges isn’t easy to acquire, but it’s where we have to start. 

Introduction

Mi tincidunt elit, id quisque ligula ac diam, amet. Vel etiam suspendisse morbi eleifend faucibus eget vestibulum felis. Dictum quis montes, sit sit. Tellus aliquam enim urna, etiam. Mauris posuere vulputate arcu amet, vitae nisi, tellus tincidunt. At feugiat sapien varius id.

Eget quis mi enim, leo lacinia pharetra, semper. Eget in volutpat mollis at volutpat lectus velit, sed auctor. Porttitor fames arcu quis fusce augue enim. Quis at habitant diam at. Suscipit tristique risus, at donec. In turpis vel et quam imperdiet. Ipsum molestie aliquet sodales id est ac volutpat.

ondimentum enim dignissim adipiscing faucibus consequat, urna. Viverra purus et erat auctor aliquam. Risus, volutpat vulputate posuere purus sit congue convallis aliquet. Arcu id augue ut feugiat donec porttitor neque. Mauris, neque

Dolor enim eu tortor urna sed duis nulla. Aliquam vestibulum, nulla odio nisl vitae. In aliquet pellente

Elit nisi in eleifend sed nisi. Pulvinar at orci, proin imperdiet commodo consectetur convallis risus. Sed condimentum enim dignissim adipiscing faucibus consequat, urna. Viverra purus et erat auctor aliquam. Risus, volutpat vulputate posuere purus sit congue convallis aliquet. Arcu id augue ut feugiat donec porttitor neque. Mauris, neque ultricies eu vestibulum, bibendum quam lorem id. Dolor lacus, eget nunc lectus in tellus, pharetra, porttitor.

"Ipsum sit mattis nulla quam nulla. Gravida id gravida ac enim mauris id. Non pellentesque congue eget consectetur turpis. Sapien, dictum molestie sem tempor. Diam elit, orci, tincidunt aenean tempus."

Tristique odio senectus nam posuere ornare leo metus, ultricies. Blandit duis ultricies vulputate morbi feugiat cras placerat elit. Aliquam tellus lorem sed ac. Montes, sed mattis pellentesque suscipit accumsan. Cursus viverra aenean magna risus elementum faucibus molestie pellentesque. Arcu ultricies sed mauris vestibulum.

Morbi sed imperdiet in ipsum, adipiscing elit dui lectus. Tellus id scelerisque est ultricies ultricies. Duis est sit sed leo nisl, blandit elit sagittis. Quisque tristique consequat quam sed. Nisl at scelerisque amet nulla purus habitasse.

Nunc sed faucibus bibendum feugiat sed interdum. Ipsum egestas condimentum mi massa. In tincidunt pharetra consectetur sed duis facilisis metus. Etiam egestas in nec sed et. Quis lobortis at sit dictum eget nibh tortor commodo cursus.

Odio felis sagittis, morbi feugiat tortor vitae feugiat fusce aliquet. Nam elementum urna nisi aliquet erat dolor enim. Ornare id morbi eget ipsum. Aliquam senectus neque ut id eget consectetur dictum. Donec posuere pharetra odio consequat scelerisque et, nunc tortor. Nulla adipiscing erat a erat. Condimentum lorem posuere gravida enim posuere cursus diam.

This is a block quote

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

This is a link inside of a rich text

similar articles to check out

We Need More Student-Led Mental Health Guidance in Schools

Down the Drain: School Bathroom Privacy & Upkeep

Down the Drain: Real School Bathroom Accessibility

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

As Students Struggle With Stress and Depression, Colleges Act as Counselors

By Brad Wolverton

• Feb. 21, 2019

The email set off alarms at Ithaca College.

“I’m literally fighting for my life but staying safe,” 22-year-old Christopher Biehn emailed a professor in late September. “I won’t be in class today (or perhaps for a bit) & just pray I won’t be hospitalized long-term.”

As Mr. Biehn prepared to check into a psychiatric ward four hours from campus, a crisis team from the private liberal arts college in central New York swung into action. Shortly after Mr. Biehn wrote to his professor, a campus safety officer went to his apartment to make sure he was O.K. A social worker from the college reached out to discuss academic options as he worked to manage his bipolar disorder.

Two weeks later, after returning to his home in Medford, N.J., for treatment, he applied for a medical leave of absence from the college — his sixth leave in four years.

In extensive interviews, Mr. Biehn recounted his experiences. He has also written about them in a blog and in Ithaca College’s student paper. He started a grass-roots social media campaign to promote acceptance for mood disorders, inspired to share his story in hopes of helping others.

His journey illustrates the intense struggles students can face and the increasing steps colleges are taking to manage what some experts are calling a mental health crisis on campus. (Ithaca officials said they could not discuss a student’s health records, citing federal privacy laws.)

Students and institutions are grappling with issues like the surge in school shootings and trauma from suicides and sexual assault. But it’s not just the crises that have shaken this generation — it’s the grinding, everyday stresses, from social media pressures to relationship problems to increased academic expectations.

More than 60 percent of college students said they had experienced “overwhelming anxiety” in the past year, according to a 2018 report from the American College Health Association. Over 40 percent said they felt so depressed they had difficulty functioning.

Money problems are exacerbating their worries. Mental health professionals say college students have experienced financial burdens on a different scale than many of their predecessors. They grew up during the Great Recession and have seen family members lose jobs and homes. They have great uncertainty about their career prospects and feel pressure to excel academically or risk losing job opportunities.

“There’s a much more radical feeling that you’re either a winner or a loser,” said Victor Schwartz, a psychiatrist and medical director of the Jed Foundation, which helps colleges improve their mental health programming. “That’s put tremendous pressure on college students and is feeding a lot of the anxiety we’re seeing.”

As students have encountered more mental health problems, they have sought help in record numbers. Between the fall of 2009 and spring of 2015, the number of students who visited campus counseling centers increased by more than 30 percent, while college enrollment climbed just 5 percent, according to a 2015 report by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health.

People of all ages, but young adults in particular, are increasingly comfortable sharing intimate details of their mental health conditions, right down to their dose of antidepressant. Many expect their colleges to help them cope.

“You want a college that treats you for the person you are and gives you the help you deserve,” said Katia Seitz, a 19-year-old high school senior from Houston, who has received treatment for an eating disorder. “You don’t want a college that shuts you off or feels like it’s not their responsibility to take care of you.”

Several admissions officials say they have seen a rise in inquiries regarding counseling and mental health services and accommodations from parents and prospective students.

Colleges have helped drive demand for mental health services, pouring money into education and training to help students identify problems and learn where to turn for help. But critics say many colleges have not adequately prepared for the increasing demand, leaving some students frustrated.

Nationwide, students typically have to wait almost seven business days for their first appointment with a college counselor, according to a 2017 report from the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors. But at some colleges, it can be more than two months.

Three years ago, the counseling center at Queens College had 60 students on its waiting list (it does not require anyone experiencing a crisis to wait). Like many institutions, it began restricting the number of times students could see a counselor, from unlimited visits to 12. At the start of this semester, its waiting list was down to 30 students. But wait times can grow during peak periods.

“As we approach midterms, it feels like we’re running a crisis clinic rather than a counseling center,” said Barbara Moore, director of counseling, health and wellness. She would like to add more counselors, but doesn’t have the space.

Many colleges, however, are increasing their ranks. At least 155 counseling centers added new clinical positions from July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2017, according to the report by the association for counseling center directors.

Studies show that hiring additional therapists can help keep students healthy and enrolled, which can be a good return on investment for an institution.

“If your tuition is $50,000 a year and your counseling budget is $1 million, your counseling center doesn’t have to retain that many students to make up that cost,” said Greg Eells, director of counseling and psychological services at Cornell University.

A recent independent review of Ithaca College’s student health and psychological services center, which found gaps in senior leadership and access to care, prompted the college to create a senior-level position responsible for student wellness and to make other improvements. Since 2017, the college has added two positions to both its counseling and case-management staffs.

[Read more about what some schools have done to address students’ mental health .]

The 2007 mass shooting at Virginia Tech, which prompted universities to change how they deal with mental health issues, led many institutions to hire case managers, or “ ICare ” teams, like Ithaca’s, whose jobs include helping students in distress. Just 25 people attended the inaugural meeting of the Higher Education Case Managers Association , in 2008, the group said. By the end of this year, the association expects to have more than 900 members.

And although colleges have increased the size of their counseling staffs, many campuses are still straining to keep up, forcing some institutions to rethink their treatment strategies.

Daniel Eisenberg, a University of Michigan professor, said many colleges were also intrigued with the idea of online treatment, but were skeptical of its merits.

“One of the best parts of campuses is that we have this in-person community where we can support students, so why start doing things online? It’s a debate or question that’s hanging over higher education,” said Dr. Eisenberg, who is helping to lead a large study to better understand the effectiveness of online treatment.

Traumatic incidents have helped other institutions revamp their intake processes. A 2010 shooting at the University of Texas led its counseling center to develop a crisis-response system now used to assess all students seeking mental health treatment. The university’s “brief assessment and referral team,” or B.A.R.T., aims to identify students’ problems quickly and direct them to the right service.

U.T. refers many students to one of the 30 to 40 counseling groups it administers each semester. Among other things, the groups have helped survivors of sexual assault and students exploring different identities. The forums show students they are not alone, which can be a powerful message. They also help reduce the load on university counselors.

“We would love to provide all the resources to all the students,” said Christopher Brownson, associate vice president for student affairs and director of the university’s counseling and mental health center. “But the answer to all social and emotional problems in the world cannot be to go see your therapist.”

Other institutions have found success with modified counseling sessions. Penn State University has set up a half-dozen drop-in clinics at places like residence halls and student unions where students can consult with a licensed therapist without having to make an appointment.

“You drop in, get your answer and go on your way,” said Ben Locke, senior director for counseling and psychological services. “It fundamentally changes the interaction.”

Dozens of universities have placed therapists around their campuses, making it easier for students to find help in a convenient location. The University of Michigan has 12 “embedded” counselors, including psychologists and social workers, in its schools of engineering, dentistry and pharmacy. Other schools have placed full-time counselors in the athletic department, where they help players recover from head injuries or overcome mental performance blocks.

The University of South Florida has gathered data on the students who seek mental health counseling at its main campus, in Tampa. It has found that about a quarter of them don’t need a therapist. They often just need better time-management or anxiety-reducing skills, said Rita DeBate, associate vice president for health and wellness.

To help address those issues, the university created “relaxation stations” that include massage chairs, bean bags and nap pods — chairs that cost more than $10,000 each and have quickly become the most sought-after seats on campus.

“We’d love it if we had a lazy river,” Dr. DeBate says, referring to the ultimate student amenity. But once students sink into one of those chairs, letting the white noise settle over them, it’s almost as nice, she says.

Mr. Biehn, the Ithaca College student, has not found many relaxing moments since applying for his sixth medical leave last fall. The former high school class president, who was on a full academic scholarship at Ithaca, has tried dozens of medicines, but nothing seems to work. He hopes to finish his degree someday, but he has no plans to return to the college.

Late last month, after sounding hopeful on a phone call with a reporter, he slipped into a dark place, returning to the psychiatric ward for another week. At his lowest moments, he said, he lies in bed, feeling numb.

“I’m basically dead to the world,” he said, “even though there’s just enough breathing going on to call me alive.”

Managing Anxiety and Stress

Stay balanced in the face of stress and anxiety with our collection of tools and advice..

How are you, really? This self-guided check-in will help you take stock of your emotional well-being — and learn how to make changes .

These simple and proven strategies will help you manage stress , support your mental health and find meaning in the new year.

First, bring calm and clarity into your life with these 10 tips . Next, identify what you are dealing with: Is it worry, anxiety or stress ?

Persistent depressive disorder is underdiagnosed, and many who suffer from it have never heard of it. Here is what to know .

New research suggests people tend to be lonelier in young adulthood and late life. But experts say it doesn’t have to be that way .

How much anxiety is too much? Here is how to establish whether you should see a professional about it .

• COVID-19 and your mental health

Worries and anxiety about COVID-19 can be overwhelming. Learn ways to cope as COVID-19 spreads.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, life for many people changed very quickly. Worry and concern were natural partners of all that change — getting used to new routines, loneliness and financial pressure, among other issues. Information overload, rumor and misinformation didn't help.

Worldwide surveys done in 2020 and 2021 found higher than typical levels of stress, insomnia, anxiety and depression. By 2022, levels had lowered but were still higher than before 2020.

Though feelings of distress about COVID-19 may come and go, they are still an issue for many people. You aren't alone if you feel distress due to COVID-19. And you're not alone if you've coped with the stress in less than healthy ways, such as substance use.

But healthier self-care choices can help you cope with COVID-19 or any other challenge you may face.

And knowing when to get help can be the most essential self-care action of all.

Recognize what's typical and what's not

Stress and worry are common during a crisis. But something like the COVID-19 pandemic can push people beyond their ability to cope.

In surveys, the most common symptoms reported were trouble sleeping and feeling anxiety or nervous. The number of people noting those symptoms went up and down in surveys given over time. Depression and loneliness were less common than nervousness or sleep problems, but more consistent across surveys given over time. Among adults, use of drugs, alcohol and other intoxicating substances has increased over time as well.

The first step is to notice how often you feel helpless, sad, angry, irritable, hopeless, anxious or afraid. Some people may feel numb.

Keep track of how often you have trouble focusing on daily tasks or doing routine chores. Are there things that you used to enjoy doing that you stopped doing because of how you feel? Note any big changes in appetite, any substance use, body aches and pains, and problems with sleep.

These feelings may come and go over time. But if these feelings don't go away or make it hard to do your daily tasks, it's time to ask for help.

Get help when you need it

If you're feeling suicidal or thinking of hurting yourself, seek help.

• Contact your healthcare professional or a mental health professional.
• Contact a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline , available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat . Services are free and confidential.

If you are worried about yourself or someone else, contact your healthcare professional or mental health professional. Some may be able to see you in person or talk over the phone or online.

You also can reach out to a friend or loved one. Someone in your faith community also could help.

And you may be able to get counseling or a mental health appointment through an employer's employee assistance program.

Another option is information and treatment options from groups such as:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

Self-care tips

Some people may use unhealthy ways to cope with anxiety around COVID-19. These unhealthy choices may include things such as misuse of medicines or legal drugs and use of illegal drugs. Unhealthy coping choices also can be things such as sleeping too much or too little, or overeating. It also can include avoiding other people and focusing on only one soothing thing, such as work, television or gaming.

Unhealthy coping methods can worsen mental and physical health. And that is particularly true if you're trying to manage or recover from COVID-19.

Self-care actions can help you restore a healthy balance in your life. They can lessen everyday stress or significant anxiety linked to events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-care actions give your body and mind a chance to heal from the problems long-term stress can cause.

Take care of your body

Healthy self-care tips start with the basics. Give your body what it needs and avoid what it doesn't need. Some tips are:

• Get the right amount of sleep for you. A regular sleep schedule, when you go to bed and get up at similar times each day, can help avoid sleep problems.
• Move your body. Regular physical activity and exercise can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Any activity you can do regularly is a good choice. That may be a scheduled workout, a walk or even dancing to your favorite music.
• Choose healthy food and drinks. Foods that are high in nutrients, such as protein, vitamins and minerals are healthy choices. Avoid food or drink with added sugar, fat or salt.
• Avoid tobacco, alcohol and drugs. If you smoke tobacco or if you vape, you're already at higher risk of lung disease. Because COVID-19 affects the lungs, your risk increases even more. Using alcohol to manage how you feel can make matters worse and reduce your coping skills. Avoid taking illegal drugs or misusing prescriptions to manage your feelings.

Take care of your mind

Healthy coping actions for your brain start with deciding how much news and social media is right for you. Staying informed, especially during a pandemic, helps you make the best choices but do it carefully.

Set aside a specific amount of time to find information in the news or on social media, stay limited to that time, and choose reliable sources. For example, give yourself up to 20 or 30 minutes a day of news and social media. That amount keeps people informed but not overwhelmed.

For COVID-19, consider reliable health sources. Examples are the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Other healthy self-care tips are:

• Relax and recharge. Many people benefit from relaxation exercises such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation and yoga. Find an activity that helps you relax and try to do it every day at least for a short time. Fitting time in for hobbies or activities you enjoy can help manage feelings of stress too.
• Stick to your health routine. If you see a healthcare professional for mental health services, keep up with your appointments. And stay up to date with all your wellness tests and screenings.
• Stay in touch and connect with others. Family, friends and your community are part of a healthy mental outlook. Together, you form a healthy support network for concerns or challenges. Social interactions, over time, are linked to a healthier and longer life.

Avoid stigma and discrimination

Stigma can make people feel isolated and even abandoned. They may feel sad, hurt and angry when people in their community avoid them for fear of getting COVID-19. People who have experienced stigma related to COVID-19 include people of Asian descent, health care workers and people with COVID-19.

Treating people differently because of their medical condition, called medical discrimination, isn't new to the COVID-19 pandemic. Stigma has long been a problem for people with various conditions such as Hansen's disease (leprosy), HIV, diabetes and many mental illnesses.

People who experience stigma may be left out or shunned, treated differently, or denied job and school options. They also may be targets of verbal, emotional and physical abuse.

Communication can help end stigma or discrimination. You can address stigma when you:

• Get to know people as more than just an illness. Using respectful language can go a long way toward making people comfortable talking about a health issue.
• Get the facts about COVID-19 or other medical issues from reputable sources such as the CDC and WHO.
• Speak up if you hear or see myths about an illness or people with an illness.

COVID-19 and health

The virus that causes COVID-19 is still a concern for many people. By recognizing when to get help and taking time for your health, life challenges such as COVID-19 can be managed.

• Mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. National Institutes of Health. https://covid19.nih.gov/covid-19-topics/mental-health. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• Mental Health and COVID-19: Early evidence of the pandemic's impact: Scientific brief, 2 March 2022. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-2019-nCoV-Sci_Brief-Mental_health-2022.1. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• Mental health and the pandemic: What U.S. surveys have found. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/03/02/mental-health-and-the-pandemic-what-u-s-surveys-have-found/. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• Taking care of your emotional health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/selfcare.asp. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• #HealthyAtHome—Mental health. World Health Organization. www.who.int/campaigns/connecting-the-world-to-combat-coronavirus/healthyathome/healthyathome---mental-health. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• Coping with stress. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/stress-coping/cope-with-stress/. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• Manage stress. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/health-conditions/heart-health/manage-stress. Accessed March 20, 2020.
• COVID-19 and substance abuse. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/covid-19-substance-use#health-outcomes. Accessed March 12, 2024.
• COVID-19 resource and information guide. National Alliance on Mental Illness. https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/NAMI-HelpLine/COVID-19-Information-and-Resources/COVID-19-Resource-and-Information-Guide. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Negative coping and PTSD. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/negative_coping.asp. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Health effects of cigarette smoking. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/health_effects/effects_cig_smoking/index.htm#respiratory. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• People with certain medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Your healthiest self: Emotional wellness toolkit. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nih.gov/health-information/emotional-wellness-toolkit. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• World leprosy day: Bust the myths, learn the facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/leprosy/world-leprosy-day/. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• HIV stigma and discrimination. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-stigma/. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Diabetes stigma: Learn about it, recognize it, reduce it. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/diabetes_stigma.html. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Phelan SM, et al. Patient and health care professional perspectives on stigma in integrated behavioral health: Barriers and recommendations. Annals of Family Medicine. 2023; doi:10.1370/afm.2924.
• Stigma reduction. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/od2a/case-studies/stigma-reduction.html. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Nyblade L, et al. Stigma in health facilities: Why it matters and how we can change it. BMC Medicine. 2019; doi:10.1186/s12916-019-1256-2.
• Combating bias and stigma related to COVID-19. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/covid-19-bias. Accessed March 15, 2024.
• Yashadhana A, et al. Pandemic-related racial discrimination and its health impact among non-Indigenous racially minoritized peoples in high-income contexts: A systematic review. Health Promotion International. 2021; doi:10.1093/heapro/daab144.
• Sawchuk CN (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. March 25, 2024.

Products and Services

• A Book: Endemic - A Post-Pandemic Playbook
• Begin Exploring Women's Health Solutions at Mayo Clinic Store
• A Book: Future Care
• Antibiotics: Are you misusing them?
• COVID-19 and vitamin D
• Convalescent plasma therapy
• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• COVID-19: How can I protect myself?
• Herd immunity and coronavirus
• COVID-19 and pets
• COVID-19 antibody testing
• COVID-19, cold, allergies and the flu
• Long-term effects of COVID-19
• COVID-19 tests
• COVID-19 drugs: Are there any that work?
• COVID-19 in babies and children
• Coronavirus infection by race
• COVID-19 travel advice
• COVID-19 vaccine: Should I reschedule my mammogram?
• COVID-19 vaccines for kids: What you need to know
• COVID-19 vaccines
• COVID-19 variant
• COVID-19 vs. flu: Similarities and differences
• COVID-19: Who's at higher risk of serious symptoms?
• Debunking coronavirus myths
• Different COVID-19 vaccines
• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
• Fever: First aid
• Fever treatment: Quick guide to treating a fever
• Fight coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission at home
• Honey: An effective cough remedy?
• How do COVID-19 antibody tests differ from diagnostic tests?
• How to measure your respiratory rate
• How to take your pulse
• How to take your temperature
• How well do face masks protect against COVID-19?
• Is hydroxychloroquine a treatment for COVID-19?
• Loss of smell
• Mayo Clinic Minute: You're washing your hands all wrong
• Mayo Clinic Minute: How dirty are common surfaces?
• Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pregnancy and COVID-19
• Safe outdoor activities during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Safety tips for attending school during COVID-19
• Sex and COVID-19
• Shortness of breath
• Thermometers: Understand the options
• Treating COVID-19 at home
• Unusual symptoms of coronavirus
• Vaccine guidance from Mayo Clinic
• Watery eyes

Related information

• Mental health: What's normal, what's not - Related information Mental health: What's normal, what's not
• Mental illness - Related information Mental illness

Your gift holds great power – donate today!

Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that's changing medicine.

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Best Family Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2024 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

The Importance of Mental Health

It's not just a buzzword

Elizabeth is a freelance health and wellness writer. She helps brands craft factual, yet relatable content that resonates with diverse audiences.

Akeem Marsh, MD, is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who has dedicated his career to working with medically underserved communities.

Westend61 / Getty Images

Risk Factors for Poor Mental Health

Signs of mental health problems, benefits of good mental health, how to maintain mental health and well-being.

Your mental health is an important part of your well-being. This aspect of your welfare determines how you’re able to operate psychologically, emotionally, and socially among others.

Considering how much of a role your mental health plays in each aspect of your life, it's important to guard and improve psychological wellness using appropriate measures.

Because different circumstances can affect your mental health, we’ll be highlighting risk factors and signs that may indicate mental distress. But most importantly, we’ll dive into why mental health is so important.

Mental health is described as a state of well-being where a person is able to cope with the normal stresses of life. This state permits productive work output and allows for meaningful contributions to society.

However, different circumstances exist that may affect the ability to handle life’s curveballs. These factors may also disrupt daily activities, and the capacity to manage these changes. That's only one reason why mental health is so important.

The following factors, listed below, may affect mental well-being and could increase the risk of developing psychological disorders .

Childhood Abuse

Childhood physical assault, sexual violence, emotional abuse, or neglect can lead to severe mental and emotional distress. Abuse increases the risk of developing mental disorders like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or personality disorders.

Children who have been abused may eventually deal with alcohol and substance use issues. But beyond mental health challenges, child abuse may also lead to medical complications such as diabetes, stroke, and other forms of heart disease.

The Environment

A strong contributor to mental well-being is the state of a person’s usual environment . Adverse environmental circumstances can cause negative effects on psychological wellness.

For instance, weather conditions may influence an increase in suicide cases. Likewise, experiencing natural disasters firsthand can increase the chances of developing PTSD. In certain cases, air pollution may produce negative effects on depression symptoms.  

In contrast, living in a positive social environment can provide protection against mental challenges.

Your biological makeup could determine the state of your well-being. A number of mental health disorders have been found to run in families and may be passed down to members.

These include conditions such as autism , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder , bipolar disorder , depression , and schizophrenia .

Your lifestyle can also impact your mental health. Smoking, a poor diet , alcohol consumption , substance use , and risky sexual behavior may cause psychological harm. These behaviors have been linked to depression.

When mental health is compromised, it isn’t always apparent to the individual or those around them. However, there are certain warning signs to look out for, that may signify negative changes for the well-being. These include:

• A switch in eating habits, whether over or undereating
• A noticeable reduction in energy levels
• Being more reclusive and shying away from others
• Feeling persistent despair
• Indulging in alcohol, tobacco, or other substances more than usual
• Experiencing unexplained confusion, anger, guilt, or worry
• Severe mood swings
• Picking fights with family and friends
• Hearing voices with no identifiable source
• Thinking of self-harm or causing harm to others
• Being unable to perform daily tasks with ease

Whether young or old, the importance of mental health for total well-being cannot be overstated. When psychological wellness is affected, it can cause negative behaviors that may not only affect personal health but can also compromise relationships with others. 

Below are some of the benefits of good mental health.

A Stronger Ability to Cope With Life’s Stressors

When mental and emotional states are at peak levels, the challenges of life can be easier to overcome.

Where alcohol/drugs, isolation, tantrums, or fighting may have been adopted to manage relationship disputes, financial woes, work challenges, and other life issues—a stable mental state can encourage healthier coping mechanisms.

A Positive Self-Image

Mental health greatly correlates with personal feelings about oneself. Overall mental wellness plays a part in your self-esteem . Confidence can often be a good indicator of a healthy mental state.

A person whose mental health is flourishing is more likely to focus on the good in themselves. They will hone in on these qualities, and will generally have ambitions that strive for a healthy, happy life.

Healthier Relationships

If your mental health is in good standing, you might be more capable of providing your friends and family with quality time , affection , and support. When you're not in emotional distress, it can be easier to show up and support the people you care about.

Better Productivity

Dealing with depression or other mental health disorders can impact your productivity levels. If you feel mentally strong , it's more likely that you will be able to work more efficiently and provide higher quality work.

Higher Quality of Life

When mental well-being thrives, your quality of life may improve. This can give room for greater participation in community building. For example, you may begin volunteering in soup kitchens, at food drives, shelters, etc.

You might also pick up new hobbies , and make new acquaintances , and travel to new cities.

Because mental health is so important to general wellness, it’s important that you take care of your mental health.

To keep mental health in shape, a few introductions to and changes to lifestyle practices may be required. These include:

• Taking up regular exercise
• Prioritizing rest and sleep on a daily basis
• Trying meditation
• Learning coping skills for life challenges
• Keeping in touch with loved ones
• Maintaining a positive outlook on life

Another proven way to improve and maintain mental well-being is through the guidance of a professional. Talk therapy can teach you healthier ways to interact with others and coping mechanisms to try during difficult times.

Therapy can also help you address some of your own negative behaviors and provide you with the tools to make some changes in your own life.

The Bottom Line

So why is mental health so important? That's an easy answer: It profoundly affects every area of your life. If you're finding it difficult to address mental health concerns on your own, don't hesitate to seek help from a licensed therapist .

World Health Organization. Mental Health: Strengthening our Response .

Lippard ETC, Nemeroff CB. The Devastating Clinical Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect: Increased Disease Vulnerability and Poor Treatment Response in Mood Disorders . Am J Psychiatry . 2020;177(1):20-36. doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.2019.19010020

 Helbich M. Mental Health and Environmental Exposures: An Editorial. Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2018;15(10):2207. Published 2018 Oct 10. doi:10.3390/ijerph15102207

Helbich M. Mental Health and Environmental Exposures: An Editorial. Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2018;15(10):2207. Published 2018 Oct 10. doi:10.3390/ijerph15102207

National Institutes of Health. Common Genetic Factors Found in 5 Mental Disorders .

Zaman R, Hankir A, Jemni M. Lifestyle Factors and Mental Health . Psychiatr Danub . 2019;31(Suppl 3):217-220.

Medline Plus. What Is mental health? .

National Alliance on Mental Health. Why Self-Esteem Is Important for Mental Health .

By Elizabeth Plumptre Elizabeth is a freelance health and wellness writer. She helps brands craft factual, yet relatable content that resonates with diverse audiences.

How Does Stress Affect the Body? Essay

Introduction.

Stress is an inseparable part of any human experience, which is why its effects on the body need to be examined further. Although efforts must be applied to reduce the extent of stress and the exposure to it, eradicating the specified phenomenon from an individual’s life is presently impossible and barely productive (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Instead, the effects of stress and their mitigation need to be learned closer to reduce possible health outcomes. Especially after the pandemic of COVID-19 has made the levels of stress in people worldwide skyrocket, the significance of studying the levels of stress on the human body has grown tremendously (Schönrich et al. 3). This paper will examine the effects of stress on different systems within a human body, further recommending the strategies that can be used to alleviate the adverse outcomes.

Stress: Definitions

Before proceeding with listing the multiple outcomes of stress affecting the human body and its multiple systems, one might want to define the subject matter first. The notion of stress might seem simple enough, meaning mostly feeling of unease caused by negative emotions. However, the concept of stress is far more complex due to the presence of multiple factors determining its development, as well as the numerous ways in which it can manifest itself (Schönrich et al. 2). Therefore, to define stress, one may need to consider several perspectives.

As a separate health issue, stress does not occur in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5). Instead, DSM-5 offers definitions for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress disorder (ASD), anxiety, and related conditions (American Psychiatric Association 265). The described approach is quite reasonable since the very notion of stress is quite broad. Indeed, examining the subject matter, one will recognize the presence of a twofold nature of it. Namely, stress encompasses both the state of anxiety and emotional unease, while also implying the range of external factors affecting an individual. Collier et al. suggest that stress should be defined as “the environment that places a strain on a biological system” (10367). As shown in the described definition, the notion of stress is seen as a combination of the components that elicit negative emotions and confusion.

Stress and the Human Body

To examine the effects of stress on the human body, a basic understanding of how the human body functions are needed. To simplify the exploration of the complex neurological pathways that the stress response suggests, one may need to isolate eleven primary systems within the human body. These are the musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous, reproductive, digestive, immune, urinary, and exocrine (Rathus and Nevid 17). Since changes occur within every system and are intertwined closely within the human body, it is crucial to consider each with the described connection in mind.

Effects of Stress on the Musculoskeletal and Exocrine Systems

As an immediate and instinctive response to stress, the muscles in the human body become tense. The specified reaction causes muscles to become the shield against a possible injury, also allowing one either to fight effectively or to run (Rathus and Nevid 121). The increase in muscle tension is spurred by the rise in the levels of cortisol, which is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex located in the adrenal gland (Rathus and Nevid 121). In turn, chronic stress causes muscles to be overly tense constantly, which may lead to long-term effects such as muscle cramps (Rathus and Nevid 122). Prolonged stress also affects the exocrine system in the long term, causing hair loss and brittle nails.

Effects of Stress on the Respiratory System

In the event of a sudden introduction of stress factors, the respiratory system responds in increased activity. Namely, the number of breaths per minute increases due to the rise in the need to supply oxygen to muscles and the brain (Hales and Hales 22). The described outcome is linked directly to the aforementioned “fight or flight” instinct, which enables the body to increase the speed and precision of its reactions to external factors. Furthermore, due to the constriction of the air pathways, breaths become shorter and faster (Rathus and Nevid 124). Thus, the respiratory system becomes overloaded in the event of acute stress; in fact, studies show that an asthma attack may occur as a result (Rathus and Nevid 124).

Effects of Stress on the Cardiovascular System

Due to the need to supply an increased amount of oxygen to lungs and muscles, the rise in breaths per minute causes the cardiovascular system to function at a faster pace as well, raising the heartbeat significantly. The observed phenomenon is explained by stronger heart contractions caused by the increase in the levels of cortisol, as well as adrenaline and noradrenaline (Hales and Hales 22). Furthermore, due to the need for a larger oxygen intake for the body, the amount of blood pumped through the blood vessels and the heart increases substantially, causing a faster heart rate and an increased workload for the cardiovascular system.

Effects of Stress on the Nervous System

Being under the influence of stress-inducing factors, the nervous system also produces an immediate response. However, before assessing the effects of stress on it, one should mention that the nervous system is typically split into two main parts, namely, the autonomic and somatic ones (Hales and Hales 24). The former, in turn, is subdivided into the sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic (PNS) nervous systems (Hales and Hales 24). The latter plays a direct role in activating the aforementioned “fight or flight” response as it sends signals to the adrenal medulla and the pituitary gland (Hales and Hales 22). As a result, the glands releasing cortisol, adrenalin, and noradrenalin are activated, causing immediate changes in the rest of the systems, particularly, the endocrine and the respiratory ones. Thus, the chain of immediate responses toward the emerging risk is launched. When affected by stress in the long term, the nervous system continues to respond, causing further deterioration of the body.

Effects of Stress on the Endocrine System

As emphasized above, stress factors cause an immediate release of the hormones that activate the rest of the systems. Therefore, what is known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis within the endocrine system is activated once stress factors emerge. As a result, stress-related hormones, primarily, cortisol, adrenalin, and noradrenalin, are produced. Cortisol, in turn, supplies the energy needed to address a stress-related situation.

Effects of Stress on the Gastrointestinal and Reproductive Systems

The gastrointestinal system also responds to stress quite promptly due to the immense number of neurons in it. However, due to the disruption of the standard functioning of the gastrointestinal cells, stress can result in muscle spasms within the gastrointestinal system. The described phenomenon may entail a variety of effects ranging from diarrhea to constipation.

Examining the effects of stress on the human reproductive system, one should consider the differences between the male and female ones. In the male system, due to the rise in the levels of testosterone, which is activated through the parasympathetic path, the phenomenon of arousal is often observed as a response to immediate threat and stress (Hales and Hales 23). In the female reproductive system, long-term effects such as the disruption of the menstrual cycle and the inability to conceive can be seen as the key outcomes.

Effects of Stress on the Urinary and Excretory Systems

In an overactive bladder, the increased level of stress may lead to more rapid functioning and the need to urinate more frequently, leading to incontinence. In the long term, the specified effects may cause additional health conditions, such as bladder inflammation. Similarly, the excretory system’s functioning is disrupted to a considerable degree under the influence of both short- and long-term stress. The specified effects are likely to aggravate until the stress factors are removed from an individual’s environment, which is why the threat of kidney damage must be considered for those experiencing constant emotional distress.

Effects of Stress on the Immune System

As a rule, a significant drop in the functioning of the immune system is observed after individual experiences severe stress. When considering short-term stress, the immune system of an individual remains unaffected for the most part; however, in the long term, the immune system suffers significantly. Due to the focus on managing a specific set of stress factors, the human body loses the ability to produce antibodies as effectively as it used to do. Consequently, one’s ability to withstand the impact of multiple health threats is diminished to a large extent, causing one to become more susceptible to infectious diseases and, overall, more vulnerable to health threats. The described outcomes suggest that the immune system must remain one of the priorities when addressing stress as a health concern.

Effects of Stress on the Lymphatic System

Finally, the effects that stress produces on the lymphatic system of an individual need to be touched upon. The lymphatic system is also affected once an individual is exposed to stress, causing the neural-inflammatory signaling to be reduced significantly. Long-term exposure to stress may cause the development of cancerous cells in lymph nodes, as a recent study explains (Le and Sloan 3). Therefore, addressing the problem of stress promptly is essential to prevent oncological issues from developing.

Although stress is often taken for granted and believed to have mostly superficial effects solely on the nervous system, it affects profoundly the entirety of the human body. Even in the instances when stress occurs for a short amount of time, the changes taking place in one’s body are very noticeable, causing a string of adverse effects. In the long term, the effects of stress on one’s health are detrimental since stress affects every single system. Thus, creating strategies for managing stress as a tangible threat to one’s well-being is instrumental. Moreover, promoting patient education concerning the strategies for managing stress and preventing it from taking place needs to be designed.

Works Cited

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5) . American Psychiatric Publishing.

Center on the Developing Child. “Brief: Connecting the Brain to the Rest of the Body.” CDC , Web.

Collier, Robert J., et al. “A 100-Year Review: Stress Physiology Including Heat Stress.” Journal of dairy science, vol. 100, no. 12, 2017, pp. 10367-10380. Web.

Hales, Dianne, and Julia Hales. Personal Stress Management: Surviving to Thriving . Nelson Education, 2016.

Le, Caroline P., and Erica K. Sloan. “Stress-Driven Lymphatic Dissemination: An Unanticipated Consequence of Communication between the Sympathetic Nervous System and Lymphatic Vasculature.” Molecular & Cellular Oncology , vol. 3, no. 4, 2016, pp. 1-8.

Mental Health. “Anxiety Global.” OurWorldData , 2020, Web.

Rathus, Spencer A., and Jeffrey S. Nevid. Psychology and the Challenges of Life: Adjustment and Growth . John Wiley & Sons, 2019.

Schönrich, Günther, Martin J. Raftery, and Yvonne Samstag. “Devilishly Radical NETwork in COVID-19: Oxidative Stress, Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs), and T Cell Suppression.” Advances in Biological Regulation , vol. 77, 2020, pp. 1-12.

“The Body Systems.” Adelphi , 2020, Web.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, February 23). How Does Stress Affect the Body? https://ivypanda.com/essays/how-does-stress-affect-the-body/

"How Does Stress Affect the Body?" IvyPanda , 23 Feb. 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/how-does-stress-affect-the-body/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'How Does Stress Affect the Body'. 23 February.

IvyPanda . 2022. "How Does Stress Affect the Body?" February 23, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/how-does-stress-affect-the-body/.

1. IvyPanda . "How Does Stress Affect the Body?" February 23, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/how-does-stress-affect-the-body/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "How Does Stress Affect the Body?" February 23, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/how-does-stress-affect-the-body/.

• Workplace Bullying, Salivary Cortisol and Long-Term Sickness Absence
• Case Study: Mechanism of Endocrine Control
• Respiratory, Peripheral Vascular, & Lymphatic Systems
• “‘Immune Boosting’ in the Time of COVID: Selling Immunity on Instagram” by Darren N. Wagner Summarising and Paraphrasing
• The Male Reproductive System: Male Infertility
• The Vitamin Myth: Do We Need Supplements
• Paper-Based Methods and E-prescription: Evaluation Project
• Exploring Research Methods in Healthcare: Effectively Implementing Research

Mental Health Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on mental health.

Every year world mental health day is observed on October 10. It was started as an annual activity by the world federation for mental health by deputy secretary-general of UNO at that time. Mental health resources differ significantly from one country to another. While the developed countries in the western world provide mental health programs for all age groups. Also, there are third world countries they struggle to find the basic needs of the families. Thus, it becomes prudent that we are asked to focus on mental health importance for one day. The mental health essay is an insight into the importance of mental health in everyone’s life. 

Mental Health

In the formidable years, this had no specific theme planned. The main aim was to promote and advocate the public on important issues. Also, in the first three years, one of the central activities done to help the day become special was the 2-hour telecast by the US information agency satellite system. 

Mental health is not just a concept that refers to an individual’s psychological and emotional well being. Rather it’s a state of psychological and emotional well being where an individual is able to use their cognitive and emotional capabilities, meet the ordinary demand and functions in the society. According to WHO, there is no single ‘official’ definition of mental health.

Thus, there are many factors like cultural differences, competing professional theories, and subjective assessments that affect how mental health is defined. Also, there are many experts that agree that mental illness and mental health are not antonyms. So, in other words, when the recognized mental disorder is absent, it is not necessarily a sign of mental health. 

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

One way to think about mental health is to look at how effectively and successfully does a person acts. So, there are factors such as feeling competent, capable, able to handle the normal stress levels, maintaining satisfying relationships and also leading an independent life. Also, this includes recovering from difficult situations and being able to bounce back.  

Important Benefits of Good Mental Health

Mental health is related to the personality as a whole of that person. Thus, the most important function of school and education is to safeguard the mental health of boys and girls. Physical fitness is not the only measure of good health alone. Rather it’s just a means of promoting mental as well as moral health of the child. The two main factors that affect the most are feeling of inferiority and insecurity. Thus, it affects the child the most. So, they lose self-initiative and confidence. This should be avoided and children should be constantly encouraged to believe in themselves.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• Publications
• Account settings

Preview improvements coming to the PMC website in October 2024. Learn More or Try it out now .

• Advanced Search
• Journal List
• PMC10342613

Associations between Stress, Anxiety, Depression and Sleep Quality among Healthcare Students

Monira alwhaibi.

1 Medication Safety Research Chair, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11149, Saudi Arabia

2 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11149, Saudi Arabia

Noha A Al Aloola

Associated data.

The corresponding author will provide the datasets used and analyzed during the current work upon reasonable request.

Objectives: Stress, anxiety, and depression among students have many negative health consequences and may predispose students to poor sleep quality; therefore, this research aimed to investigate the perceived stress, anxiety, and depression and their relation to the level of sleep quality among healthcare students. Methods: A cross-sectional study using a validated survey was conducted among Saudi healthcare students from different regions during the period from 26 September 2022 to 30 October 2022. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was utilized to assess sleep quality. PSPP Statistical Analysis Software version 1.2.0 was used for all statistical analyses. Results: 701 respondents participated in this research; the response rate was 73.8%. About 60% of the study sample was female, and the average age was 20.9 years. 80.3% of students have poor sleep quality; the participants’ mean sleeping hours per night was 6.81 ± 1.88 h. About three-quarters of students (72.9%) perceive themselves as stressed. A significant positive correlation was observed between sleep quality and perceived stress (r-value = 0.363), anxiety (r-value = 0.387), and depression (r-value = 0.347). Poor sleep quality was more likely among those with stress than those without stress (AOR = 1.79; 95% CI 1.07, 2.99) and two times more likely among students with cases of anxiety than those without anxiety (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI 1.10, 3.94). Conclusions: Our study highlights the high prevalence of poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and stress among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia. Students’ reported stress, anxiety, and residence region were associated with poor sleep quality. These results imply the necessity of regular screening and appropriate intervention for sleep problems, stressors, and anxiety among healthcare students.

1. Introduction

Sleep quality is an individual’s satisfaction with all aspects of the sleep experience [ 1 , 2 ]. This concept includes several aspects, such as sleep efficiency, sleep onset latency, duration, and the number of awakenings after sleep onset [ 1 , 2 ]. Several published studies reported that poor sleep quality is highly prevalent among healthcare students. For example, a systematic review of 57 published studies that included 25,735 medical students has estimated a pooled prevalence of poor sleep quality of 52.7% using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) [ 3 ]. A substantial body of evidence suggests that poor sleep quality is associated with adverse physical and mental problems [ 4 , 5 , 6 ]. Insufficient sleep appeared to be associated with obesity, cardiovascular morbidity, and risk of diabetes [ 4 ]. Also, poor sleep quality was associated with students’ academic performance, life satisfaction, anger, and fatigue [ 7 , 8 , 9 ]. Additionally, adults who do not obtain sufficient sleep also have a higher risk of developing stress, anxiety, and depression [ 5 ].

The relationship between stress, anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality has been highlighted in several published studies among healthcare students [ 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. A study among nursing students reported that poor sleep quality was associated with stress and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Mishra et al., in their study among 284 undergraduate medical students, found that students with stress had twofold odds of poor sleep quality compared to those without stress [ 13 ]. Another study found that higher perceived stress levels were significantly associated with poor sleep quality [ 12 ]. In a survey of 1125 college students between 17 and 24 years old, more than 60% of participants were classified as poor sleepers. According to the students, tension and stress significantly related to sleep disturbance, and they were responsible for 24% of the variance in the sleep quality score [ 14 ].

Although the association between stress and sleep quality seems well established by several studies, the prevalence of poor sleep quality among healthcare students and its relation to stress and mental health has not been sufficiently addressed in Saudi Arabia. Most of the studies in Saudi Arabia focused on medical students only [ 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 ] and not students from other health science programs such as pharmacy and nursing students. Therefore, this study intended to examine the prevalence of poor sleep quality; evaluate the association between perceived stress, anxiety, and depression and sleep quality among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia. We hypothesize that stress, anxiety, and depression are all related to poor sleep quality. Findings from this study are crucial for understanding what contributes to poor sleep quality in this academic population, bringing this issue to the attention of decision-makers, and aiding in developing successful interventions to improve sleep quality among healthcare students and help them cope with the pressures of academic learning.

2.1. Study Design and Sample

A cross-sectional study was carried out among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia using an online survey. The data were collected from 26 September 2022 to 30 October 2022. The study sample was composed of undergraduate healthcare students from different healthcare schools. The inclusion criteria include undergraduate students of all levels of health science bachelor programs (medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and nursing, applied medical sciences) who consented to participate in this study. Students from non-health science programs were excluded from the study.

2.2. Ethical Considerations and Consent to Participate

The study was approved by the Research Center of the Medical College of King Saud University and its Ethical Committee (Protocol No. E-21-6192). The informed consent was given to the participants to describe the study goal and the participant’s freedom to withdraw at any time. No participant identifiers were used in this study to guarantee the privacy of the participant’s information.

2.3. Questionnaire Development and Validation

An anonymous online survey was written in English language and composed of four sections pertaining to sociodemographic data (age, gender, nationality, and region of residence); type of health science program and year of study; perceived physical health (excellent/very good, good, and fair/poor); and health (sleep quality, perceived stress, depression, and anxiety). A group of researchers (n = 3) reviewed the questionnaire for the content and ease of understanding of the questions to ensure content and face validity; researchers’ comments were taken into account. The questionnaire’s clarity and suitability for the intended sample were pilots tested among 22 participants who completed a self-administered survey. Minor adjustments were made in response to the pilot group’s feedback, and their responses have not been included in the final analysis of the sample.

2.4. Data Collection/Data Source

The questionnaire was hosted on a Google form; the survey link was distributed online via email. First, the informed consent form was displayed in our online survey on the first page before any research questions were asked. The study’s overall goal, the risks and benefits, the methods for protecting participants’ privacy, their rights, and a statement that the participation was entirely voluntary are all explained to participants in the consent form. Next, after the participants’ consent was obtained, students who agreed to participate were asked to complete the questionnaires.

2.5. Outcome Variable (Sleep Quality)

Sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) [ 12 ]; the PSQI contains 19 self-reported questions. The PSQI is the most widely used assessment tool to evaluate subjective sleep quality during the previous month, which covers a broad range of indicators relevant to sleep quality [ 20 ]. It has seven components: subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, habitual sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, use of sleeping medication, and daytime dysfunction. Global PSQI score is the sum of the 7 component scores, ranging from 0–21. A global score of 5 or under indicates “good sleep quality”, and a score greater than 5 indicates “poor sleep quality”.

2.6. Key Variables: Perceived Stress

Perceived stress was evaluated using the Perceived Stress Scale-14 (PSS), a method for assessing psychological stress widely [ 21 , 22 ]. PSS is a self-reported scale that is used to evaluate “the degree to which individuals perceive stressful situations in their life” [ 23 ]. Each item in this scale is rated on a 5-point Likert scale, with 0 indicating “never” and 4 indicating “very often” [ 24 ]. After reversing positive items’ scores (i.e., items 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, and 13) and summing up all scores, the total scores range from 0 to 56. A score above 28 points was considered stressed, and 0–28 points were considered unstressed.

Mental health (anxiety and depression) was evaluated using the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) [ 20 ]. It has been widely used among undergraduate healthcare students. It consists of 14 items, seven items to measure the anxiety subscale and seven items to measure the depression subscale. A total subscale score of 11 and over indicates a probable case of depression or anxiety, a score of 8–10 indicates borderline, and a score of 0–7 is considered normal.

2.7. Other Variables

Independent variables included sociodemographic data, type of health science program, year of study, and perceived physical health. The perceived physical health was evaluated by a single-item self-rated question: “How is your physical health in general?” The categories for the responses were (1) Excellent, (2) Very Good, (3) Good, (4) Fair, and (5) Poor [ 25 ].

2.8. Statistical Analysis

All data were analyzed using PSPP Statistical Analysis Software version 1.2.0 (GNU PSPP, Boston, MA, USA). In order to compare sleep quality groups, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Chi-square tests, independent groups t -tests, and regression analysis. Pearson correlation was conducted between the continuous scores of anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and sleep quality. Regression assumptions were evaluated first to ensure that assumptions were met. Then, a binary logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the associations between sleep quality and reported stress, anxiety, and depression after considering various confounders. The findings were presented as adjusted Odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and the level of significance was ( p -value < 0.05).

3.1. Characteristics of the Study Sample

From a total of 950 students who received our online survey, 701 students participated in this study; the response rate was 73.8%. The average age of the participants was 20.9 years. The majority of participants were female (60.0%). Most of the students were from the middle region (53.1%). Table 1 displays the characteristics of the participants.

Baseline Characteristics of the Study Sample (n = 701).

3.2. Prevalence of Perceived Stress, Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep Quality

Almost 73.0% of students were stressed ( Table 2 ). Around 52.9% reported having cases of anxiety, and 32.2% of the participants had cases of depression. In 80.3% of healthcare students, poor sleep quality was prevalent. The subjects’ average nightly sleep duration was 6.81 ± 1.88 h. The subjects’ average perceived stress was (30.88 ± 7.09), sleep quality (8.30 ± 2.73), anxiety (10.59 ± 4.21), and depression (8.60 ± 3.90).

Prevalence of stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality.

3.3. Correlation between Anxiety, Depression, Perceived Stress, and Sleep Quality

Table 3 displays the correlation between anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and sleep quality. There was a positive correlation between sleep quality and perceived stress (r-value = 0.363, p < 0.05), anxiety (r-value = 0.387, p < 0.05), and depression (r-value = 0.347, p < 0.05).

Correlation between Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and other parameters.

3.4. Sleep Quality

An association was found between poor sleep quality and stress ( p < 0.001), anxiety ( p < 0.001), and depression ( p < 0.001) ( Table 4 ). For example, poor sleep quality was significantly higher in healthcare students who reported stress than those without stress (89.6% versus 73.3%, p -value < 0.001) and cases of depression than those without depression (90.3% versus 78.2%, p -value < 0.001).

Relationship between stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality (n = 701).

p -value presents differences in stress from chi-square tests.

An association was found between poor sleep quality and region of residence ( p = 0.044) and perceived physical health ( p < 0.001) ( Table 5 ). For example, a higher percentage of poor sleep quality was among healthcare students who perceived their physical health as poor than those with excellent health (87.5% versus 76.6%, p -value < 0.001). However, no association between sleep quality and age, gender, or type of healthcare program was found ( p -value was greater than 0.05). Some reported reasons by students for having difficulty sleeping in our study include; stress, overthinking, studying, coffee consumption, and family-related issues.

Association between sleep quality and other study variables.

p -value presents differences in stress from chi-square tests and t -test.

3.5. Factors Associated with Sleep Quality from Adjusted Regression Analysis

An adjusted regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with sleep quality ( Table 6 ). Participants who had stress were more likely to have poor sleep quality than those without stress (AOR = 1.79; 95% CI 1.07, 2.99). Students with anxiety were twice as likely as those without anxiety to have poor sleep quality (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI 1.10, 3.94). Less frequently did students from the north, east, and south have poor sleep quality than those from the western region.

Statistics from logistic regression of the factors associated with sleep quality.

* asterisk represents significant findings. AOR: adjusted Odds ratio; CI: confidence interval; Ref: Reference Group.

4. Discussion

The current study investigated the relationship between perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia. Results showed a high prevalence of poor sleep quality among healthcare students. Also, our findings highlighted that perceived stress and anxiety are essential factors that were associated with the odds of poor sleep quality.

Our findings of a prevalence of poor sleep quality in almost 80% of participants are higher than the reported prevalence from previous studies in Saudi Arabia (30–76%) [ 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 26 , 27 , 28 ] and the global pooled prevalence (52.7%) using the same assessment scale (i.e., Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) [ 3 ]. The variation in the prevalence of poor sleep quality reported in previous studies could be due to the difference in the study population or the different assessment methods used to measure sleep quality. Some reported reasons by students for having difficulty sleeping in our study include; stress, overthinking, studying, coffee consumption, and family-related issues. The availability and use of stimulants (like coffee) are related to changes in sleep patterns, an essential modifiable lifestyle risk factor for students. Caffeine is the most popular psychoactive substance used globally [ 29 , 30 ]. According to a recent systematic review of epidemiologic research and randomized clinical trials, caffeine use has been found to harm both subjective and objective sleep quality [ 29 ]. According to this review, caffeine was associated with perceived sleep quality, decreased total sleep time and efficiency, and prolonged sleep latency.

The results of this study highlighted a high prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression among healthcare students. Anxiety was reported by half of students, stress affected nearly three-quarters, and depression affected one-third of participants. Our findings, which indicate a higher prevalence of stress, are consistent with previous research among Saudi medical students [ 17 , 31 , 32 ] but greater than what was reported globally (31.0–64.0%) [ 33 , 34 ]. Participants in the study reported high levels of anxiety and depression. The depression rate is consistent with the national and international rates among medical students [ 16 , 35 , 36 ], and the anxiety level was comparable to the documented prevalence in earlier studies among medical students worldwide and in Saudi Arabia [ 16 , 35 , 37 , 38 ].

This research found significant associations between perceived stress and anxiety with poor sleep quality. Perceived stress relation with poor sleep quality result aligns with the earlier studies that have underscored this meaningful relationship [ 16 , 17 , 26 , 35 , 39 ]. Another significant finding in this research was the association between anxiety and poor sleep quality. Those with anxiety cases were twofold to have poor sleep quality. In fact, anxiety has been previously reported to be linked to poor sleep quality in Saudi medical students [ 16 , 17 , 26 ]. Although those findings have been reported in earlier research, this study added to the existing literature the focus on this relationship among students in different healthcare fields, not only medical students. This study’s findings emphasize the need to offer healthcare students stress management interventions and coping techniques. Evidence suggests a connection between adults who stutter and sleep quality, stress, and anxiety [ 40 ]. Stuttering is a condition of the speech motor system. According to research, stuttering is linked to social anxiety, and lack of sleep is linked to increased anxiety levels. As a result, the degree of stuttering is correlated with the severity of sleep disturbances.

Age, gender, residence region, and the type of health science program were all examined in this study as potential influences on the quality of sleep. The residence region was associated with sleep quality, whereas age, gender, and sleep quality were not shown to be associated in our study [ 18 ]. These findings contradict past research, which showed that women experienced much higher levels of poor sleep quality than men [ 41 ]. The gender disparities in the prevalence of sleep quality exist in the univariate analysis but not in the adjusted analysis. Gender disparities were anticipated due to the differences in sociocultural factors such as income and biological factors such as sexual hormones; however, it was not statistically significant in our study. Additionally, the adjusted regression analysis revealed no significant change in sleep quality across several health science programs.

4.1. Study Implications

The current study has several potential applications. First, the increasing prevalence of poor sleep quality and its link to stress and anxiety underscores the need to enhance mental health services, which will ultimately enhance their sleep quality and improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Studies have demonstrated a relationship between the aspects of sleep quality and good physical and mental health, and good HRQoL [ 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 ]. For example, a recent study revealed that all of the distinct correlations between anxiety, depression, stress, and HRQoL were mediated by overall sleep quality. These preliminary results imply that medical students’ well-being is related to the quality of their sleep and that it may be advantageous to address sleep problems in this academic population [ 42 ].

Additionally, considering that improving sleep quality is associated with enhanced physical and mental health [ 47 ], future research should evaluate healthcare students’ sleep knowledge and provide them with sleep education. This training must cover subjects including sleep and circadian science, sleep hygiene, and the clinical evaluation and treatment of sleep disturbances and disorders [ 48 ]. Some evidence of the effectiveness of sleep education programs in enhancing sleep hygiene knowledge, sleep hygiene behavior, and/or sleep quality when compared to traditional techniques has been documented by a comprehensive review of four interventional trials [ 49 ].

4.2. Strength/Limitations

This study evaluated sleep quality and the association between stress, anxiety, and depression and poor sleep quality in different healthcare schools in Saudi Arabia. In contrast, previous studies focused only on medical students. However, it is important to take into account some of this study’s limitations. Due to the study design’s cross-sectional nature, we cannot evaluate the causal relationship. Also, other confounders, such as the use of social media, family support, physical activity, and academic performance, needed to be measured and adjusted. Also, this study did not explore the other reasons that are associated with poor sleep quality, which could be either physiological (e.g., body mass index), environmental (e.g., television/device use), or a combination [ 1 ]; thus, future research should address this. Additionally, we cannot rule out recall bias since the data were self-reported.

5. Conclusions

Our study highlights the high prevalence of poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and stress among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia. Students’ reported stress, anxiety, and residence region were associated with poor sleep quality. These results imply the necessity of regular screening and appropriate intervention for sleep problems, stressors, and anxiety among healthcare students to enable prompt assistance and support from social work educators to consider including sleep hygiene education and offer counseling and stress management interventions to help healthcare students obtain better sleep and cope with stressors in academic education.

Funding Statement

The authors extend their appreciation to the Deputyship for Research & Innovation, Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia, for funding this research (IFKSURC-1-1701).

Author Contributions

M.A. conceptualized and designed the manuscript structure, reviewed the literature, and drafted the initial manuscript and survey. M.A. analyzed the data and wrote the results. N.A.A.A. conducted the literature review and reviewed the manuscript and the survey. M.A. and N.A.A.A. approved the final manuscript. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Ethics approval was obtained for this project through the Research Center of the Medical College of King Saud University and its Ethical Committee (Protocol No. E-21-6192).

Informed Consent Statement

Written informed consent has been obtained from the participant(s) (i.e., healthcare students).

Data Availability Statement

Conflicts of interest.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.