“Not Always Smooth Sailing”: Mental Health Issues Associated with the Transition from High School to College

Abstract

Students who transition from high school to college are often excited by the new phase of their lives. However, they are exposed to circumstances and expectations which place them at risk for psychiatric disorders or that may exacerbate pre-existing problems. In this paper, we discuss risk factors and other issues associated with students transitioning to college or university life, identify challenges for health professionals, and suggest possible strategies to improve the mental health of young adults on college campuses. Academic staff and health care providers need to be aware of how best to engage and assist students during an important phase of their life. Processes and care pathways also need to be easily understood, user friendly, and appropriately resourced. It is anticipated that staff, students, and industry health care providers will benefit from a greater awareness of some of the mental health issues that may occur in higher education.

Mental Health Problems and Related Factors in Ecuadorian College Students

“…Previous research has demonstrated that the transition from high school to college can be stressful for students [5]. The college years represent a developmentally challenging transition to adulthood.…”

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Mental Health First Aid Training Among Student Affairs Staff at a Canadian University

“…University campuses represent a crucial site of research on student experiences of mental health and the effective diagnosis and care of individuals at the institution. As university enrolment rates continue to rise, so too does the presence of mental health issues on campuses and the need for services to address them (Kitzrow, 2003;Zivin, Eisenberg, Gollust, & Golberstein, 2009;Cleary, Walter, & Jackson, 2011). In the past decade, universities across North America have noted a rise in the number of students who have sought assistance for mental health problems (Yorgason, Linville, & Zitzman, 2008;Guthman, Locin, & Konstas, 2010).…”

Reflective Components in Undergraduate Mental Health Nursing Curricula: Some Issues for Consideration

“…Additionally, concerns about mental health behaviours among undergraduate nursing students have been well-documented (Cleary, Horsfall, Baines, & Happell, 2012;Cleary, Walter, & Jackson, 2011). Self disclosure-verbally or in writing-regardless of setting is a risky activity and some students may not understand how unsafe they are, or how others students or teachers might misconstrue what they have said (Chirema, 2007;Epp, 2008).…”