A study with 500 student participants showed that more than 50% of the subjects were experiencing symptoms of common mental disorders like stress, anxiety, depression, and somatoform disorders. The study suggested forming a team of peer-counsellor to mediate between healthcare professionals and students to provide the right support to the students during distress and prevent mental health issues in later stages of life.

The study showed that the students diagnosed with CMD followed an emotional coping mechanism or turned to maladaptive strategies such as smoking, and consuming alcohol and drugs.

Dr. Shreevidya Vikram stated that introducing the mental health module in the college curriculum will help in the long run. She added that the pandemic has added to this stress in the last two years. The academic achievement of the study can be indirectly linked to a student’s coping mechanism, poor attitude, parenting methods at home, etc. However, while seeking help from parents or friends, negative peer pressure was observed that also has a direct impact on coping mechanisms. Hence, the recommendation is to introduce modules to provide better distress management among students. 

(Source: https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/diagnostics/mental-health-deteriorating-among-college-students-study/91200391)