Students and Mental Health: Finding Support and Practical Tips for You
More and more EU students are struggling with stress, anxiety and loneliness. This Blog is for those who already study and need some tips.
Studies show that up to 40% face mental health difficulties, and one in five lives with a diagnosed mental disorder.
Depression and anxiety affect seven in ten students, while ADHD, eating and personality disorders are also common. Many of these problems emerge before the age of 25, making student years a critical window for support.
A 2025 Nightline France survey of 15,000 students across five countries suggests things are worsening. Depression and anxiety affect 71% of respondents!
Academic and Financial Pressure
Euronews report notes that pressure to perform academically, rising costs and money worries contribute to deteriorating well‑being.
If you’re struggling, remember that you don’t have to tackle everything alone. Reach out to tutors and financial aid offices, break assignments into smaller steps and explore budgeting resources. Many countries in Europe offer dedicated (financial) support for students, but please watch out that you’re not just taking the most easy solution (bank loans) to finance your studies. Doing that for 3 or more years can add up quickly, and you always need to repay back the loan including high interests. Ask yourself if you want to study for a decent job, that’s only purpose then is to repay your bank loan for years. I want you to be aware of the delayed costs from a (bank) study loan. Maybe working more hours next to your studies but going out of the study without being in debt is a more sufficient outcome. Below are a few tips how to handle the financial side.
Loneliness and Isolation
Loneliness is another factor harming student well‑being. Campus life can be hectic, and making friends doesn’t always happen naturally. We know it, because we have been there too. Especially exchanges during the studies often involve a high feeling of loneliness. Often it takes time to really make friends and get to know people, while you also have just a short-term stay.
Joining clubs, study groups or volunteering can help you connect with others. Small steps, like eating lunch with classmates or attending social events, make a big difference. Personally, I recommend getting in contact with people through Sports because you have a similar base of interest. Or in general using your hobby to get more social helps a lot.
Practical Tips for You
Everyone’s journey is unique, but some common strategies can help. Prioritise sleep and exercise, stay connected with friends and family, and practice mindfulness or journaling. For me journaling, even just a few minutes daily, was such a great tool to stay focused and keep the many thoughts out of my head. If you need professional help, reach out to campus counselling or national helplines. By speaking up and seeking support, you’re also helping to reduce stigma around mental health.
For the financial side I can recommend:
List down your monthly expenses - and I mean every single one. Once done, it is easy to keep up with it. This is helpful to create awareness about your current financial needs and spending habits
Once you have the list - take the red marker and cut out what is not needed and what can be reduced. Pro tip: The gym membership (mental + physical health) is always more useful as subscriptions to distract you e.g. Netflix. Pro tip 2: Every business wants to keep you as a customer. What happens if you quit a subscription? They will send you an email a few weeks later with a discount to come back. This is the most basic business principle. Try it out and get a better deal!
Find a useful student job. Most of us have to work in a minimum wage, usually not-so-exciting jobs while studying. But even there are opportunities to make the best out of that. For example: I worked during the weekends in a warehouse, the job was so simple I listened to podcast and audiobooks for full 8 hours! This way I earned money and used my time wisely. Be creative with your time! A friend of mine works in a supermarket, he is able to take home groceries for free - saves a ton of money!
Remember
You’re not alone. Do not hesitate to get in contact with people that can help you!
Alright, I hope this blog provides some value for you!
Talk soon,
