College Students & Anxiety: What You Need to Know

 By Christina Milcetich

Published: June 20, 2025

College is a time of new beginnings—new friendships, freedom, and academic challenges. But along with the excitement often comes anxiety, a personal and mental health issue that affects a large number of students.

In fact, anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges on college campuses today—and it's more than just feeling nervous before a test. Anxiety can interfere with everyday functioning, academic performance, social life, and physical health.

What the Stats Say (Facts About Anxiety)

  1. 59% of college students reported experiencing anxiety within the past year. Academic pressure, uncertainty about the future, and social stress were leading causes.                         Source: NCHA-IIIb_SPRING_2024_UNDERGRADUATE_REFERENCE_GROUP_EXECUTIVE_SUMMARY.pdf

  2. Over 70% of college students face mental health challenges, with anxiety ranking as the #1 issue. These students report struggles managing stress, social life, and sleep because of anxiety.            Source: Facts & Statistics | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA

  3. More than 45% of students say anxiety and stress are their top challenges in college. This includes fear of failing, financial concerns, and pressure to meet expectations.        Source: Anxiety Disorders - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) 

  4.  Students often delay seeking help due to stigma, long wait times, or lack of access to care. Even though resources are available, many students feel embarrassed, unsure where to start, or fear judgment. This leads to untreated or worsening anxiety.                                                      Source: Data snapshot: Mental health and substance use in higher education

  5. Anxiety doesn’t just affect mental health—it causes physical symptoms. These include fatigue, chest pain, headaches, nausea, and insomnia. Many students report skipping class or withdrawing socially due to these effects.                                                                                        Source: Anxiety disorders - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic 

How Anxiety Affects Your Wellness Wheel

Anxiety doesn't just impact mental health—it spills over into all dimensions of wellness:

  • Emotional: Triggers irritability, low self-esteem, and mood swings.

  • Physical: Causes fatigue, sleep issues, and weakened immunity.

  • Social: Makes students withdraw from friendships or social activities.

  • Intellectual: Affects concentration, decision-making, and academic performance.

  • Spiritual: Leaves students feeling disconnected or lacking purpose.

  • Financial: Increased healthcare costs and potential loss of scholarships due to poor academic standing.

Two Strategies to Cope with Anxiety

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps students recognize and reframe negative thoughts. It teaches techniques like journaling, challenging irrational fears, and practicing mindfulness.

How to apply it:

  • Use apps like MoodKit or Woebot for daily CBT exercises.

  • Schedule a session with your school counselor or a therapist who offers CBT.

2. Time Management and Goal setting

Feeling overwhelmed is often linked to poor time management. Learning to prioritize, plan, and set realistic goals can reduce anxiety.

How to apply it:

  • Use planners or digital tools like Google Calendar and Notion.

  • Break assignments into small tasks and reward yourself for progress.

A Local Resource: Hillsborough Community College Counseling Services

  • Name: HCC Counseling Services

  • Location: 

  • Brandon Campus: Student Services Building, Room 122.
  • Dale Mabry Campus: Student Services Building, Room 244.
  • Plant City Campus: Student Services Building, Room 123.
  • SouthShore Campus: Multipurpose Building.
  • Ybor City Campus: Student Services Building. Students should sign in on the first floor to meet with a counselor.

  • Phone: 813-253-7000

  • Website: Counseling | Hillsborough Community College 

About:
HCC’s counseling department has been serving students for over 50 years. Their trained counselors offer free, confidential support for stress, anxiety, depression, and other personal challenges. Walk-in and virtual sessions are available.

Final Thoughts

If you're struggling with anxiety, you're not alone. College is tough, but there are resources and strategies that can help. Take a deep breath, reach out, and know that asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Let's Talk

Have you ever dealt with anxiety in college? What’s worked for you? Share your thoughts below or reach out to a counselor today.

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