The college years are often celebrated as a time of exploration, personal growth and new opportunities. Yet for many students, this period is increasingly marked by burnout, depression and anxiety. These mental health challenges are no longer isolated incidents but have become widespread, prompting urgent conversations about how higher education institutions can better support their students.
To explore these issues, I spoke with Dr. Chris Holloman, a mental health counselor, who offered a candid perspective on the roots of this crisis and potential solutions.
Dr. Holloman identifies several driving forces behind the surge in student mental health concerns.
“The pressure to succeed academically and professionally is immense,” he said. “Many students feel they must excel in every area-academics, extracurriculars, internships-just to keep pace with their peers.”
Financial stress is another major contributor, with rising tuition costs and mounting student debt weighing heavily on students’ minds. Additionally, social media amplifies these pressures by fostering unrealistic expectations and constant comparison.
Burnout, Dr. Holloman notes, often manifests as chronic exhaustion, lack of motivation, and a persistent sense of being overwhelmed. “Students may find it difficult to complete assignments or even attend classes because they feel emotionally drained,” he said. Over time, this can spiral into hopelessness and depression.
Depression and anxiety, according to Dr. Holloman, can profoundly disrupt both academic and personal life. Depression may sap a student’s ability to concentrate or enjoy previously meaningful activities. Anxiety, meanwhile, can trigger excessive worry and physical symptoms such as headaches or insomnia. “Both conditions can interfere with academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being,” he emphasizes.
Dr. Holloman acknowledges colleges’ progress to address these challenges, citing expanded counseling services and wellness programs on many campuses. However, he cautions demand often outpaces available resources. “There’s still a stigma around seeking help, which prevents some students from reaching out,” he said.
To better support students, Dr. Holloman advocates for increased investment in mental health resources, including more counselors and shorter wait times for appointments. Peer support programs and faculty training to recognize signs of distress are also crucial. “Promoting a culture of balance, rather than relentless overachievement, is essential,” he said.
For students struggling with burnout or mental health issues, Dr. Holloman’s advice is clear: “Know that you’re not alone. Reach out for help-whether through your college’s counseling center or external resources like therapists or hotlines.” He stresses the importance of self-care – including adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise and the willingness to set healthy boundaries.
Changing the narrative around the college experience is possible and necessary, Dr. Holloman said. “Burnout, depression and anxiety should not be accepted as inevitable parts of college life,” he said. By tackling systemic issues like academic and financial pressure and normalizing conversations about mental health, colleges can foster environments where students truly thrive.
