Citation

Cleary M, Walter G, Jackson D. Issues Ment. Health Nurs. 2011; 32(4): 250-254.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/01612840.2010.548906

PMID

21355760

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.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Risk Factors; Female; Male; Students; Adolescent; Social Environment; Young Adult; Risk-Taking; Suicidal Ideation; Adaptation, Psychological; Life Change Events; Achievement; Mental Health Services; Nursing Assessment; Adjustment Disorders; Student Health Services; Student Dropouts