Statistical snapshot: Mental health impacts of study stress on Australian students
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New research by mental health organisation ReachOut shows a significant increase in the severity of study stress for young Australians this year, with approximately one third of students reporting that study stress is currently having a major impact on their mental and emotional wellbeing, up from 18 per cent in December 2020*.
The survey, conducted in September, found the number of young people reporting poor mental health or wellbeing as a result of study stress has doubled from 25 per cent in previous years to 56 per cent this year.
The survey also showed some of the impacts that study stress is having on the lives of students in 2021, compared to December 2020, with the added pressures of COVID-19 restrictions, including:
- 68 per cent of students were unable to focus, up from 33 per cent
- 57 per cent were having trouble sleeping, up from 32 per cent
- 39 per cent reported poor nutrition, up from 18 per cent
- 32 per cent reported that they had experienced issues with their family, up from 16 per cent
When asked about studying and navigating the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions, 40 per cent said it’s been difficult to learn content needed for exams, one in five said they didn’t have an appropriate place to study and 23 per cent said their plans for study or work after school have changed.
Despite the increased impact of study stress on young people, fewer young people are getting support for study stress. In 2019, 85 per cent accessed support from family, friends or professional services, while in 2021 this had dropped to 78 per cent.
*National surveys of over 1000 young people (aged 14-25) across Australia conducted in September 2021 and December 2020 by ReachOut.