One in three EUR students struggles with mental health

Many EUR students are still struggling with poor mental health. Around 36 percent give themselves a low rating, and nearly three-quarters experience moderate to severe stress, according to the university’s student wellbeing monitor.

Between September and November 2023, 36 percent of students rated their mental health as inadequate, according to the monitor. This is slightly higher than the previous survey. First-year and international students scored lower, as they have to adjust to a new academic and social environment, which makes them feel more stressed and lonely.

About 77 percent of students experience moderate to severe stress, with study pressure playing the most significant role. Some 41 percent report mild burnout symptoms. Both indicators are slightly higher than in the previous year’s survey as well.

Majority feels lonely

EUR students also suffer from loneliness. More than half (58 percent) experience at least a moderate sense of loneliness, with nearly 21 percent feeling it strongly. In addition, a small majority reports a negative self-image.

The monitor shows that women feel worse than men, and students who do not identify as male or female score even lower. International students and those with a migrant background report lower wellbeing than their Dutch peers without a migrant background, while bachelor’s students score worse than master’s students.

The monitor also tracks smoking and drinking habits. About 14 percent of the students surveyed are considered heavy drinkers. Some 28 percent regularly smoke cigarettes, and 22 percent vape. Additionally, 36 percent report using substances other than alcohol and cigarettes.

Support services

In recent years, Erasmus University has launched several initiatives to improve students’ mental health. These include the new ROOM app, a student wellbeing week, access to the Living Room in the Langeveld Building, and various helplines such as student psychologists.