By Usugun A. Andrew & Owobu Maureen
The rapid pace of global change is significantly impacting the mental well-being of students. Advancements in technology, media influence, and the increasing interconnectedness brought about by globalization are subjecting students to pressures and challenges that have a direct bearing on their overall health.
This confluence of factors has amplified health concerns among students, with rates of anxiety and depression experiencing an alarming ascent, leaving students wrestling with their emotional well-being. Regrettably, some turn to maladaptive coping mechanisms such as excessive screen time and caffeine consumption. Research indicates that depending on copious amounts of caffeine, such as energy drinks or coffee, to maintain wakefulness and alertness can disrupt sleep patterns, exacerbating stress and fatigue. Some even resort to combining energy drinks with coffee, compounding the potential health risks.
In an interview with ACJ UNIBEN, a student at the University of Benin shared her battle with mental health issues, including anxiety, on the condition of anonymity. She disclosed feeling overwhelmed by the demands of academic work, family responsibilities, and societal expectations. Although she described her mental health as being at a low point, she found solace and support through her connections with loved ones. Her narrative is not strange, as data from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) suggests that mental health problems among university students are on the rise.
She explained that her primary challenge lies in her lack of self-understanding. “I don’t know much about myself, and you’ll soon understand why,” she stated. The student expressed a strong desire to delve deeper into her self-recognition and to unearth a sense of purpose that emanates from within, rather than adhering to external expectations.
While pursuing her studies in history at the third-year level, the student confronted an additional layer of stress due to the high rate of absentee cases in her department. She remarked, “In my department, we have the highest rate of absentee cases, and rectifying your scores is a hassle, especially when you know you passed, but the lecturer insists that you should rewrite it.” She revealed being a victim of absentee cases since her first year. The student described the attainment of good grades as a daunting challenge and a source of profound frustration. She believes her grades do not adequately reflect her relentless dedication and hard work in her studies, causing significant stress and disappointment. Nevertheless, despite these formidable obstacles, she remains unwavering in her commitment to her education and her pursuit of academic excellence. She affirmed, “After I graduate, I intend to pursue a master’s degree in archaeology and history of art.”
Beyond academic hurdles, she reflected on the complexities of her relationships with her peers, characterizing them as problematic and challenging. The history student expressed difficulties in accessing mental health support. Despite engaging in therapy for a year, she found the treatment to be ineffectual and, in some cases, even detrimental. This left her feeling frustrated and uncertain about the path forward. Additionally, she acknowledged the impact of her social media use: “Yes, I do believe my social media usage affects my mental health.” She conveyed feeling inundated by the relentless pressure to maintain a constant online presence. In the midst of these formidable challenges, the student discovered a haven in her artistic pursuits. “I have a deep passion for drawing, and I work as a graphic designer,” she disclosed, underscoring the therapeutic role that drawing plays in her life.
The experiences of this third-year student resonate with many others. Numerous students grapple with mental health challenges that can result in academic underperformance or even dropout rates.
Universities play an indispensable role in nurturing the mental health and overall well-being of their students. In response to these challenges, the University of Benin has taken proactive steps to provide mental health resources, including a guidance and counseling center. These initiatives are geared towards creating an environment where students feel safe and empowered to engage in discussions about their mental health. Moreover, the university has the potential to organize workshops on stress management, time management, mindfulness, and coping strategies, equipping students with the tools to bolster their well-being.
The implementation of peer mentorship or support programs, where trained students can provide assistance to their peers, could prove highly advantageous. Furthermore, the institution could explore the possibility of offering greater flexibility in coursework and deadlines to alleviate academic stress and better accommodate students’ mental health needs.
Addressing students’ mental health necessitates an ongoing, collaborative effort that brings together students, faculty, staff, and mental health professionals in a unified commitment to fostering a healthier and more supportive academic community.
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